In modern times, Hindu shrines are often distinguished based on the deities whose icon finds a place in the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) of the temple.
The ancient architects and sculptors however did not see these rigid boundaries, an exceptionally accommodating approach which is visible on the temple walls where a cluster of deities are materialized gloriously by the strikes of the sculptor’s tool.
This large wooden Ganesha, Lakshmi, and Saraswati wall panel is endowed with magnificent architectural and aesthetic elements and the appealing earthy tone appears as if the intricate stone carvings of an ancient temple wall have been transferred to the medium of wood.
Housed inside three distinctively carved Vimana (structure over the inner sanctum) exquisite icons of Sri Lakshmi, Ganesha and Saraswati are enshrined. All the deities are four-armed and carry their characteristic attributes which are delineated in this wooden wall panel with flawless skills. On either side of Sri Ganesha who is in the center of the middle board are two celestial maidens or Apsara in the Tribhanga (triple-bent) posture holding a lotus bud in their hands as an offering to the deities.
In the corners of this panel, Shiva-Nataraja between two pillars and Yali (mythical composite animals, elephant-lion) fill the panel with vigorous exquisiteness. The upper section of the wooden Ganesha, Lakshmi, and Saraswati wall panels shows regally seated Maheshwari on the left and four-face Brahmani on the right. These goddesses belong to the Sapta-Matrika (seven mother goddesses) cluster of Hindu-Tantra tradition and are worshiped independently and as a part of the army of Mahadevi Durga.
In the corners of this section, the god and goddess of Love, Kamadeva and Rati are lodged in dynamic postures, riding their celestial bird mounts. In the lower section of the wooden wall panel Yakshas- demi gods who are protectors of the divine space can be seen in crouching position, flanked by ferocious Simha (lions).
With exhaustive work done on primary and secondary elements and precision in finishing, the Shilpi (craftsman) has succeeded in condensing the rich temple wall engravings into this large wood wall panel. No matter where you hang this woodwork in your space, it has the brilliant ability to transform it into a sacred space.
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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