Firstly an appropriate piece of timber is selected, one that has already been given adequate time to dry. This drying process usually takes several months but also depends on the type of wood involved.

A piece of suar wood already sufficiently dry enough to begin carving. .Notice how the artisan has outlined the timber, creating an intricate map for the piece he has envisioned to carve.

 

       The carver then carefully chips away at the wood until it resembles the outline of the particular carving he is making. At this point the carver intricately chisels and picks away at the wood until all the minute details are visible. He uses a number of small tools, chisels and picks to bring out life-like features naturally embedded within the wood.

 

  

 Ketut Mindah uses a file to bring out minute detail.

 

        Now the carving is given to another group who specialize in sanding and generally finishing off the piece. A series of polishes and glosses are then applied, further highlighting the carving's features and texture.

 

An artisan's typical quiver of tools.

 

The above process can take as little as two weeks to three months to complete depending on the type of carving involved.

 

Ketut Mindah and Wayan Brata work together to complete this piece.

 

---

Home    FAQ    Search     Sculpture    Pottery     Lighting      Bathroom     Garden    Handicraft     Furniture

---