Mysore Rosewood Inlay

As dawn paints the Mysore Palace in golden hues, its intricate carvings whisper stories of a regal past. Just as the palace embodies artistic grandeur, Mysore’s rosewood inlay work transforms wood into a canvas of heritage and precision.

Inspired by the elegance of the Mysore Dasara procession, this craft has evolved while preserving its essence. Once adorned with ivory, mother-of-pearl, and sandalwood, artisans now use modern substitutes like white plastic and vibrant woods. Yet, the soul of the craft remains untouched, ensuring Mysore’s artistic legacy endures through time.

Essential Tools of Rosewood Inlay Art

Mysore’s rosewood inlay art demands precision, achieved through specialized tools that shape, carve, and refine each masterpiece.

• Bow Saw (BOW): A fine wire blade fixed to a C-shaped frame cuts intricate shapes. It is cooled with wax to prevent breakage from friction.
• Chisel: Available in various sizes, chisels shape and scrape wood. Larger chisels handle broad carvings, while fine-tipped ones create intricate details.
• Patta: A broad, flat iron rod distributes force evenly when beating chisels, preventing cracks. Small nails secure inlay pieces during pressing.
• Forceps (Chimti): A small steel picker used to carefully place delicate inlay fragments, ensuring precision and preventing slippage.

These tools bring raw materials to life, preserving the rich legacy of Mysore’s inlay tradition.

The Inlay Process

1. Design Transfer & Carving: The motifs are traced onto rosewood or other bases, then chiseled or drilled to create precise grooves for inlay placement.
2. Scooping & Assembly: Artisans carefully hollow out spaces or cut the inlay shape into the base. The inlay pieces are then assembled like a puzzle.
3. Filling & Securing: Colored wood pieces are arranged as per the design and secured with strong adhesives like Araldite or Fevicol. Small nails reinforce the motifs, and the piece is left to dry for two to three days.
4. Finishing Touches: The surface is leveled with a chisel and smoothed using flint paper. A mix of bee wax and charcoal (kala moum) is applied and scraped to enhance contrast. Sand powder mixed with glue fills any gaps for a seamless finish.

Through this meticulous process, Mysore’s rosewood inlay work continues to shine as an enduring symbol of craftsmanship and heritage.

Pictures captured by Veena Murali Decors from Arun Fine Arts, Mysore.