Orissa Handicrafts
Stone Sculpture
Stone carving of Orissa reflects the grandeur of a rich heritage. It was evolved
over centuries by craftsmen who are descendants of the great builders of the
famous temples of Lingaraja, jagannath and Konark where mute stones have been
transformed to living expressions of multi facets of human life. The tradition
continues today in the nimble fingers of the stone carves who replicate the
beauty of the sculpture.
From Soapstone, 'Kochila' (a hardstone), sand stone and serpentine stone, stone
carvers capture smaller replicas of Lingaraja and Konark temple walls, with
superb finessee. More than artistic delights the stone artifacts has other usages
too. They preserved the history of the land with its social and economic landscape.
Thus while the rearing horse bestride the fallen hero tells the story of a heroic
exploit on the battlefield, the five oared boat recounts the proud maritime
history of Orissa. They recall a period when riches from far off lands landed
at her ports, and daring merchants like the one here, scoured the world and
spread the message of Indian civilization.
The majestic stone statue of Nrishingha, avatar of Vishnu recreates the destruction
of the evil demon killed by Nrishingha with his nails, after placing him on
his lap in a mythical allegory. Even today the stone carvers with the same dexterity
cater to the needs of modern living. Families in Puri, Bhubaneswar, Lalitgiri,
Khiching and elsewhere turn out ashtrays, bowls and vases, and containers are
turned out by families in Puri, Bhubneshwar, Lalitgiri, Khiching and elsewhere.
These stone images give a touch of distinction to modern décor that little
present embellishment can hope to surpass. They are timeless reflection of glorious
tradition, an unfinished story in stone.
