WOOD CRAFT OF BIHAR AND UTTAR PRADESH –A SURVEY

The tradition of wood carving is old. Wood craft is quite popular in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Craftsmen of these states are using their skill for making the designs in traditional and innovative way. A unique engraving creativity of ‘Nakkashi work' appears with floral and figures etched out by the craftsmen. Lacquer work is obviously one of the major handicrafts of these regions. Various motifs of birds, peacock, fish, carved on the wood, appeals the viewers. The items made out of bamboo and wood are crafted in the shapes of birds, human figures and animals. Figures of Gods and Goddesses, animals and many mythological figures are crafted by the local craftsmen. The dolls, peacocks, parrots, elephants, horses, goats, bulls and cows are the repertoire of rural children. Uttar Pradesh is world known for its carved and brass inlayed or tarkashi wooden handicrafts. The craftsmen of Saharanpur are excelled in the art of inlayed wood work it is now widely used to decorate the centre-table, ash-trays, fruitbasket, service tray and other furniture articles etc. Varanasi and Amroha are particularly well known for lacquered woodcraft of UP. Numbers of lacquered toys, miniature kitchen utensils for children are made in this state.