Wood Carvings of Eastern India By Kalyan Kumar Dasgupta

Book Description

Preface

Wood has served as a fundamental material for artistic expression for thousands of years, making it a key medium in the creative endeavors of humanity. From the earliest sculptors, who favored wood for its availability and malleability, to later artisans who often began their work in wood before advancing to more enduring materials like stone and metal, the medium has played a significant role in the history of art. However, the surviving examples of ancient wood carvings are relatively few.

In India, the earliest evidence of wood carving has been discovered in Patna, an area central to this study. Although many existing examples come from later periods, the literary traditions surrounding this art form suggest that wood was highly regarded by artists in antiquity. This warrants a comprehensive comparative analysis with sculptural works in stone and metal.

This study focuses on the wood carvings of Eastern India, specifically examining artifacts from Bihar, Orissa, West Bengal, Bangladesh, Assam, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland. Notably, there is no inclusion from Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Tripura due to a lack of significant specimens. The chronological scope of this work spans from ancient times to the modern era, with a particular emphasis on the 18th and 19th centuries, as earlier examples are scarce. Additionally, some pieces from the early decades of the 20th century are included to illustrate the continuation of traditional styles.