People in Nepal have been doing a special kind of art called wood carving for a really long time over a thousand of years. Talented craftsmen use tools like gauges, chisels, and knives to carve detailed sculptures and artworks. The amazing carvings you see in the old Durbar Squares and temples in the Kathmandu Valley are like a special way of showing Nepal’s culture that has been handed down from one generation to another.
One such masterwork is the “Aankhi Jhyal,” a customary window with wood carvings that is a crucial element of Newari architecture.
History of Wood Carving in Nepal:
Wood carving has been really important in Nepal for a very long time, like more than a thousand years. People have used it to make detailed and pretty art for things like religious ceremonies and decorations.
In the old times, especially during the Malla and Licchavi eras, Nepal became super good at wood carving and building things with wood. If you visit the old cities of Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur, you can see amazing wooden buildings, temples, and palaces from that special time.
The Indresvara Mahadeva temple in Panauti is thought to have the oldest wood carving in Nepal. The beautiful ancient wood carvings at the temple are still intact because of outstanding conservation efforts. In fact, the beautiful woodcrafts and sculptures of the Licchavi period (300-879 AD) were noted even by the Chinese traveler Wang Hsuan Tsang (643 AD).
The Kasthamandap temple, which is close to Hanuman Dhoka, is yet another amazing example of wood architecture. Constructed entirely of a single timber wood. Stunningly carved doors, windows, and cornices with captivating geometric, floral, and animal patterns were features of the traditional architecture.
A key component of Newari architecture was the major wooden framework, which consisted of beams, struts, and pillars that distributed weight and provided roof support. In addition, wooden doors and windows were adorned, demonstrating the creativity and proficiency of Nepali wood carvers.
Thankfully, this traditional art form has been successfully passed down to younger generations by the local community, ensuring its continued existence and growth.
Significance of Wood Carving in Nepali Culture:
Nepali culture has a particular place for wood carving. It is frequently used to make religious items like prayer wheels, masks, and goddess statues. These items are used in regular ceremonies and rituals and are thought to possess spiritual power. Additionally, wood carving is employed as decoration; this is seen in the complex designs on traditional Nepali architecture’s windows and doors.
Whether for ornamental or religious purposes, Wood carving is still a valuable aspect of Nepali culture and a national treasure.
