Likhai wood carving on the columns as seen in c.1860 in Almora Bazaar, Uttarakhand.

Likhai (Hindi for 'writing') refers to the ancient woodcarving tradition of Uttarakhand, a North Indian mountain state.[1] Given the rapid urbanization in the region and migration of artisans to larger cities for more lucrative jobs, the craft is said to be on the verge of "vanishing".[2]

History and practice

There are no texts recording the history of the craft, and the skills and knowledge are passed down practically through apprenticeships.[3] The motifs carved on windows, pillars or doorframes include: local flora and fauna, folklores, religious symbols, geometric patterns.

References

  1. ↑ Nanduri, Nikhila (2018). "Graphic narratives from the hills: a wood-carving tradition in Uttarakhand, India". Oral History. 46 (2): 97–108 – via JSTOR.
  2. ↑ Irani, Gustasp & Jeroo (June 10, 2017). "Ganga Ram is the last surviving master craftsman of Kumaon's fading Likhai woodwork tradition" – via www.thehindu.com.
  3. ↑ "The Disappearing Craft of Likhai" – via Outlook Traveller.
This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.