Have you ever visited the magnificent Taj Mahal? It doesn’t matter whether you’ve visited the Taj only once, we’re sure the mesmerising beauty of the magnificent monument will leave you awestruck for the rest of your life. One of the many details that make the Taj a world wonder is the exquisite marble inlay work on it.
Decor Luxury Handicraft Art is one of the very few inlay panels suppliers in India, who specialise in this ancient art even today. Continue reading to find all that you need to know about the beauty of inlay panels.
Let’s take a stroll back in time to find more about the origin and history of this ancient craft.
The Origin of Exquisite Inlay Art in India
India witnessed several architectural innovations during the era of the famous Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It was during his reign; inlay work was introduced in India in the 16th century based on the Italian art of “Pietra Dura.”
Inlay work was primarily used on decorative panels in his palaces and public gardens. The major designs during this time were bird and flower motifs. Inlay art is an exquisite piece of craftsmanship that enthrals observers.
Did you know that precious jewels were used in inlay work? Here are some of the popular semi-precious stones that are used in inlay work.
Precious Stones used in Inlay Art Pieces
Turquoise
The shining blue gem was highly popular in the ancient kingdoms of Persia and Egypt. The brilliant blue colour of the stone is got from copper and iron deposits. Even today, inlay work uses this semi-precious stone in various arts and crafts.
Amethyst
Amethyst is a purple colour stone that appears transparent or translucent. It’s mined in several African countries and was believed by the ancient Greeks and Romans to contain cures to prevent intoxication.
Jade
Can you believe that humans have been using jade for over 7000 years? It’s known as the “Stone of Heaven” and has a vivid green shade. It’s popular in the inlay work used in ancient Chinese palaces.
Agate
It’s a fine-grained stone that gets its name from the Achates River that flows in Italy. It is translucent and can contain stripes.
Cornelian
Cornelian is a gemstone commonly found in India. It has a translucent look that appears as if the stone is glowing. The colours range from deep orange to vibrant reddish-orange shades.
Coral
Coral is a naturally occurring precious stone that is found on rocky sea beds. It’s made up of calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, organic matter and small traces of iron. Coral is available in a rainbow of colours ranging from bright scarlets, red, pastel pinks and oranges to white.
Tiger’s Eye
This is one of the rarer gemstones and is not well-known. It gets its name from the vivid black colour of the stone. Made with silicon dioxide, it contains golden brown stripes that resembles the appearance of a tiger’s eye. The final look of the stone depends on the location of the stone. It’s usually found in Myanmar, India, Brazil, Canada and the US.
Onyx
This is another semi-precious stone that was popular among the ancient Romans and Greeks. It’s available in a variety of colours ranging from honey to green. It’s transparent, elegant and vivid.
Lapis Lazuli
This is a deep blue gemstone that shimmers like a star. It’s mostly found in the Afghanistan valley and in some parts of Chile.
Marble Inlay Art in Modern Times
Even today, marble inlay art is done by expert craftsmen in India. Today, the art has evolved into a closely protected traditional artform practiced only by a few skilled craftsmen who pass the secrets of the trade from one generation to the next.
It’s a very delicate art. It involves cutting, shaping and engraving delicate marble stones by hand. It requires expertise and finesse.
How is Marble Inlay work done?
First the artist engraves the desired pattern – say a floral motif, a geometrical design or a brand name is engraved on the marble slab. Then, small tiny pieces of marbles, precious stones are cut delicately to fit into these tiny grooves. The small pieces attached on top are stuck to the base marble using strong adhesives. Sometimes the stones on top are also given a heat treatment to show variations in colour.
Marble forms the base while the top layer can either be marble or gemstones in different colours. Besides marble inlay, metal inlay is also done by expert craftsmen and artists in different parts of the country.
White marble from Makrana in Rajasthan is the most preferred marble type for inlay work. Creama marble from Italy is also used. Other common stones used for inlay work include green marble and black kadappa stone from Andhra Pradesh.
Once the inlay work is done and dried, the surface is polished and buffed to give it a natural shine. The polishing work is done by hand using a stone bar, that gives it a superior shine that lasts for decades.
Where is Inlay Work used in Interiors?
Inlay work is primarily used as a decorative material in tabletops for side tables and coffee tables. The bright marble inlay work makes it the centrepiece and is a great conversation starter. When it comes to the background marble, you can choose white or black marble depending on the application. Marble inlay work is also used in decorative pooja units.
Decor Luxury Handicraft Art – No.1 Marble Inlay Panels Suppliers in India
The art of marble inlay is still carried on by expert craftsmen in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Decor Luxury Handicraft Art is one of the top marble and metal inlay panel manufacturers in India. We supply metal and marble inlay slabs and tabletops to customers all across the world. If you’re looking for a luxurious and elegant way to elevate your interiors, then inlay work is a great choice. Get in touch with our team to find out availability and for the latest product prices.
