Saharanpur Wood Craft
DownloadWith a 350-year history, Saharanpur Wood Craft is a well-known and popular wood carving tradition in the city of Saharanpur. Geographically located in the northwestern part of the state of Uttar Pradesh in northern India. The art has been recognized with the GI tag for its centuries-old history, transferred from generation to generation, maintaining the uniqueness of the craft. This handicraft showcases a distinctive combination of geometric and animal patterns, as well as its blend of nature and flora. It looks way different than other wood crafts, from daily-use furniture to stunning art pieces, Saharanpur Wood Craft is unmatchable. Wood carving is a rigorous process; it requires precision with utmost attention of the craftsman.
The method of production can broadly be divided into three stages:
Timber seasoning: Wood contains moisture; it is not practical to work on moist wood. To dry out wood, air and heat are used over a period.
Chemical treatment of wood: Chemical treatment of wood uses preservatives and other agents to make it last longer and resist damage. The main method is pressure treatment, using a vacuum cylinder.
Woodcarving: Wood carving is the art of shaping wood into designs, figures, or sculptures using tools like knives, gouges, and chisels.
Thousands of families are associated with Saharanpur wood craft. They work on different products such as furniture, utility items, art pieces, or any wood-made items. Wood carving requires knowledge of correct tools and methods. Only skilled craftsmen can carve wood to turn it into art pieces. These crafts are later sold for a few hundred to thousands of rupees, and artisans get a marginal amount. For the survival of the craft and the craftsman, it is important to spread awareness among the general people about the legacy and history of the craft.
