Indian architecture has a long history in using hand-carved wood panels to adorn houses, royal palaces, temples, and public spaces. Wood carving is a profession passed down from generation to generation within a family.
The process consists of cutting the wood down to size with hand saws, then drawing the design with chalk. There are different stages of carving: master craftsman begin with rough carving, then smooth chiseling, and sandpapering to finish. Often, the finalized carved panels are stained or painted in either monochromatic or multi-colored finish.
Popular themes and motif in the carvings are of: vines, flowers, mythical characters, animals, and gods.
Traditionally, these carved panels were used as archways, door lintels, and wall moulding.
Creative interior designers have found innovative ways to incorporate these beautiful panels into modern living spaces, using them as: kitchen hoods, fireplace mantels, shelves, wall decor, doorway lintels, decorative elements on furniture, and room moulding.
Left: a decorative element for a fireplace
Right: a kitchen hood
Here, a floral and vine motif panel is used as moulding in a modern kitchen to add a bit of Indian heritage and ethnic vibe.
These intricate wood carvings are used to frame a fireplace.
A beautiful geometric motif panel is incorporated into this daybed as a decorative element.
A chakra motif wood carving becomes a console table.
This antique multi-colored patina finish wood carving is used as an end panel for a bed.
De-cor has a wonderful collection of antique and reproduction hand-carved wood panels, check out our selections.
Be inspired, as we have been, and welcome a piece of Indian heritage into your home.