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In ancient India, the carpenter held an important place in the social life of
the village and was in fact called the Sutradhar
or the "holder of the liner'. Mention of carpenters is also in the
Rig Veda where elaborate directions as to the season and manner of
felling a tree, seasoning of the wood and the making of the different articles
required are given.
Though carpenters no longer drive chariots like they used to in ancient India,
they definitely continue to enthrall us by their intricate and beautiful
work. Painstakingly-created, every wood carving is
a story of dedication and perseverance. Matched and ultimately
crowned by the joy of creation itself.
In Andhra Pradesh wood carving has been practised in many parts. In
addition to carving idols and mythological forms, the art has adapted itself to
creating wooden balustrades, arches, even combs and trinkets, besides musical
instruments. Red Sanders and other country woods are used as raw
material.
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