Sandalwood carving

The history of sandalwood carving goes back to many centuries, and a succession of ruling dynasties, impressed with its qualities, conferred on it a royal status. Such patronage ensured that the craft of sandalwood carving flourished and entire families took to this trade, living exclusively off it. The Jangid family from Churu, Rajasthan was deeply involved in this magical art since the Mughal era. Generations after generations have successfully passed on the finesse and dedication required to pursue this difficult art form. The pieces in this collection have been created by Mal Chand Ji Jangid, who was a National Awardee (1971). He died in 1986.

This sitar is carved out of a single block of sandalwood. It is dedicated to Tansen, a prominent Hindustani classical music composer and musician. He was among the Navaratnas (nine jewels) at the court of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Akbar gave him the title of Miyan (an honorific, meaning learned man). The Sitar in its 10 carvings depicts the life history of Tansen with scenes of him performing, his marriage and his famous competition with Baiju Bawra.
The miniature carvings are very intricate and this piece was completed over a period of 18 months with unmatchable dedication and skill by the craftsman. It was one of a kind piece and the craftsman did not create a similar piece again.

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