It is a composite of five miniature panels, each recounting a historic episode from the life and leela of the Lord. Starting from the left, He stands in the midst of beauteous lovesick gopis (Vrindavan milkmaids). He overpowers the demon Keshi sent by His villainous uncle Kamsa. He plays the flute while His beloved Radha dances. He spends time in the company of His gentle friend the cow. Finally, He vanquishes the vociferous serpent Kalia. Zoom in on each of the panels to appreciate the miniscule iconography and the attention to detail despite the scale.
So are the ancillary elements of the composite panel. The constituent panels are distinguished by the Indian muses, the apsaras. They are playing musical instruments and dancing to the ballads of Krishnaleela. In the narrowly sculpted row beneath the main panels are the creatures of patalaloka, man and beast, who are seemingly holding them up. On the top are multi-tiered lotus-petal roofs after the style of ancient South Indian temples. Flanked by none other than Lord Hanuman in either corner.
The lila (divine playfulness) of Lord Krishna is unspeakably endearing and potent with meaning. Children's literature in this part of the world abound with tales of His divine exploits, which have as much to teach adults as children. This wooden panel is superbly carved with portraitures of the young God in the loving company of gopis and playmates. With the practice of this endemic art running across generations of artisan families, the most perfect of wooden sculptures are to be found in the recesses of South India.
How to care for Wood Statues?
Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.
It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster.
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