Walnut Wood Carving

Since its introduction in the 15th century, walnut wood carving now occupies a place of pride in Kashmir. Interestingly, the peculiarity of the wood is precisely what makes it the ideal canvas for artisans to carve their imagination freely.

From roses, lotuses, irises, bunches of grapes, pears and chinar leaves, Kashmiri walnut wood carvings offer a myriad of pleasing visual effects. Equally resplendent on the covers of finished crafts are dragon motifs and patterns hailing from embroidered shawls, another local staple.

At the very heart, of course, remains the Khatam-band, geometrical patterns coming to life on the wood. Either carved along the borders or filling the entire surface, these intricate floral patterns or geometrical motifs take between two days to six months, depending on the artisan’s vision.

A pristine, time-worn craft, proudly upheld by Kashmiri artisans, walnut wood carvings remain truly a sight to behold, undeterred by the hand of time.