Tarakashi Wood Craft

Tarakashi brass inlay work has an understated yet regal appeal of its own. Tarakashi entails the inlay of fine wires of brass into grooves carved out on the wooden surface and then hammered into position. The inlaid wire is securely lodged and aligns smoothly and perfectly with the surface of the wood. The wooden surface is then buffed that brings out the sheen of the brass wires. Artistic woodwork and wood inlay work began as a temple and palace craft, and flourished alongside architecture and sculpture. Depending on local availability, different woods were used for wood carving, and fashioned into religious, decorative and functional articles. Over time, various centres of wood carving emerged, each with its distinct style. The origins of the craft can be traced back to the late 16th century. Closely associated with architecture, wood carving incorporated the design vocabulary of architectural carvings. It was also influenced by Kashmiri designs, with many of the craftsmen having descended from Kashmiri immigrants.