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Stone Sculpture Orissa: Handicrafts: Stone Sculpture
| "Memories Engraved" |
Special Offers on Hotels & Resort Booking in OrissaStone carving of Orissa reflects the grandeur of a rich heritage.
It was evolved over centuries by craftsmen who are descendants of the great builders of the famous temples of Lingaraja, jagannath and Konark where mute stones have been transformed to living expressions of multi facets of human life. The tradition continues today in the nimble fingers of the stone carves who replicate the beauty of the sculpture.
From Soapstone, 'Kochila' (a hardstone), sand stone and serpentine stone, stone carvers capture smaller replicas of Lingaraja and Konark temple walls, with superb finessee. More than artistic delights the stone artifacts has other usages too. They preserved the history of the land with its social and economic landscape.
Thus while the rearing horse bestride the fallen hero tells the story of a heroic exploit on the battlefield, the five oared boat recounts the proud maritime history of Orissa. They recall a period when riches from far off lands landed at her ports, and daring merchants like the one here, scoured the
world and spread the message of Indian civilization.
The majestic stone statue of Nrishingha, avatar of Vishnu recreates the destruction of the evil demon killed by Nrishingha with his nails, after placing him on his lap in a mythical allegory. Even today the stone carvers with the same dexterity cater to the needs of modern living. Families in Puri, Bhubaneswar, Lalitgiri, Khiching and elsewhere turn out ashtrays, bowls and vases, and containers are turned out by families in Puri, Bhubneshwar, Lalitgiri, Khiching and elsewhere.
These stone images give a touch of distinction to modern décor that little present embellishment can hope to surpass. They are timeless reflection of glorious tradition, an unfinished story in sotne.
Places to Visit
Bhubaneshwar, Puri, Konark
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