Carvings

Stone carving has been prevalent in India since 7th century BC. The stone carvings skills were and still are handed down as a family tradition. Traditionally, the art of stone carving was related with architecture. Temples of Tamil Nadu and Khahuraho, Ellora Caves, Puri, Konark and many such ancient temples have stone-carved statues.

Ancient carvings were based on "Shilpa Shastra" Mahabalipuram still has an ancient school for training the sculptors. Carving a religious statue is considered an equivalent to worship. Sthapathis of Tamilnadu as well as the Somapuras of Gujarat and Rajasthan and Raidas of UP are the stone carvings communities still involved in the traditional craft.

Rajasthan has huge deposits of almost all types of stones. It also happens to be one of the greatest centers of stone carvings. Not only in the temples but in houses, forts, gardens one can see carved stone sculptures almost every where. Intricate lattice work and floral carvings on Rajasthani doors and windows is a common scene.

Sculptures made from one piece of stone have no joints. Such type are preferred for religious idols. Sandstone, marble and soap stone are considered good for carvings and inlay work as they are soft stones, that look beautiful and are easier to carve. The hard stone carvings generally don't have intricate patterns. Tools of the trade are by and large