Bone/ Horn/ Shell Craft

Ivory carving is the composition of Hindu and Islamic culture and art which makes it very secular in its appearance. Khagra and Jiagunj are the two main centers in the Murshidabad district.Craftpersons make gorgeous ivory panels which are part to the beds, simhasans or the royal chairs, palanquins, thrones.

The craftsperson carve beautiful pieces of bullock carts , trail of elephants crossing the bridge, patterns carved on the complete tusk , engraved jewellery boxes, chariots with horses and many more items. Artists put lot of effort and hard work while engraving their art in these items. Artisans working on this art make figures of Hindu gods and goddesses- Lakshmi, Durga and Ganesh.

Horn is a versatile raw material and artisans have shown keen sensitivity by using its grain and variations in colours to great advantage. When heated and oiled horn becomes soft and pliable. Bison horns are in great demand owing to the size. Vishakapatnam is a well-known centre for horn craft and the artisans are especially well known for crafting horn walking sticks.

Horn articles of Orissa are mystical and are blended with a superb fashion design. Their lively appearance, dynamism and animation vie with the real objects of nature - that spells the names of Parlakhemundi and Cuttack. Available in widest spectrum of items like combs, pen stands, cigar pipes, decorative figures - horn articles form a memorable memento for the near and dear ones at home.

Horn carving is an ancient craft practiced mainly by artisans belonging to Viswakarma Community in Thiruvananthapuram. A wide range of products like flower set, birds, animals, combs , cigarette cases, lamps etc. are made out of horn.

A variety of seashells are available in the vast beaches and shores of the Lakshadweep Islands. The typical topography pf Lakshadweep makes it a treasure house of shells, corals and oysters. Crafts of Lakshadweep mainly include items made of these. Other crafts include those made of coconut shells and tortoise shells. A variety of handicrafts most of which are used for decorative purposes and some other for household use reflect the art and craft in Lakshadweep.

The items produced include ashtrays, lamp shades, coasters, chandeliers, curtains, pot hangers, table mats, clocks, mirror frame, etc.