The art of stone carving in Karnataka has been a tradition through centuries especially in Hoysala, a notable town in the state. The technique of carving is so unique and well mastered over hundreds of years that an expert of this field can identify the type of stone simply from the sound they emit while beaten.
You will be surprised to know that the people engaged in stone carving designates stones as 'male' or 'female' while carving the sculptures of gods or goddesses respectively. The stone carving is made out of 'neutral' stones for other objects.
The experts religiously follow the norms specified by the Dhyanashlokas while doing the stone carvings in the different villages of the state of Karnataka.
The following steps are generally followed by the sculptors of Karnataka while doing the stone carving:
- the stone is cut in proportion
- a sketch of the proposed image is done
- with steel rods, mallets, chisels and files the crude stone is gradually given a form
- gradually the final image is formed
- the stone sculpture is smoothened with sandpaper
- it is then rubbed with coconut oil
One of the most popular subject of stone carving in Karnataka is the image of Lord Krishna. You will find the images of Shiva-Parvati among many others.
The sculptors of Karnataka are best of all. They have achieved the master crafts-man awards at the national level for their stone carving.
