Wooden Lacquerware of Varanasi is a centuries-old art form cherished for its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and smooth lacquered finish. Among its many traditional crafts, the Vishnu Laxmi Garuda Idol represents a unique symbolic piece highly valued by artisans and collectors. This handicraft involves hand-turning softwood—commonly eucalyptus or kadam—into toys, utensils, and decorative items using a lathe. Once shaped, skilled artisans apply multiple layers of natural lacquer and etch detailed patterns with hand-held tools and natural dyes.
The motifs used in this craft are deeply traditional and often feature floral designs, animals, birds, and geometric shapes. Colors such as bright red, yellow, green, and black are widely used, giving each product its rich and eye-catching appeal. Crafted pieces like the Garuda Idol and others hold significant cultural and spiritual meanings in the Varanasi region. The process embraces eco-friendly practices, utilizing locally sourced wood and non-toxic materials. These sustainable methods help protect both the environment and the heritage of wooden lacquerware.
Craftsmanship and Cultural Significance of Idol
Recognized with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag (GI No. 195) in 2014, this craft is a vital part of Varanasi's cultural identity. It supports numerous artisan families, especially in Ramnagar and adjacent villages. The Vishu Laxmi Idol and closely related artifacts are exquisite examples of craftsmanship handed down through generations. These wooden creations express a blend of art and tradition that evokes devotion and aesthetic admiration.
The Idol is prized for both its detailed workmanship and symbolic value. It serves as elegant home décor, a spiritual focus in prayer rooms, or a meaningful gift for special occasions. The artistry is a reflection of the region's deep cultural roots and artistic heritage, making each piece a treasured possession.
Legacy of the Garuda Idol in Wooden Lacquerware
The Garuda Idol, often portrayed along with the Vishnu Laxmi ensemble, holds a revered status within this artistic tradition. Artisans combine traditional lacquering techniques with hand-carved details to create lifelike and durable figures. The lacquer's finish lends the wood a shine that enhances the colors and fine details, making these idols highly collectible.
The legacy of the Vishu Laxmi Idol is deeply interwoven with symbolism and devotion in Indian culture. Each handcrafted piece carries spiritual significance and craftsmanship excellence. This makes the idols not only decorative but also meaningful representations of faith and cultural heritage.
Materials and Techniques Behind the Vishnu Laxmi Garuda Idol
The making of the Vishnu Laxmi Garuda Idol starts with selecting the right wood, usually softwoods like eucalyptus or kadam. These woods turn easily on a lathe without splintering, which is essential for achieving smooth shapes. Artisans then skillfully shape the wood before applying natural lacquer layers that protect and add brilliance.
In crafting the patterns, natural dyes are applied with hand-held tools, creating floral, animal, and geometric designs. The bright colors traditionally used include red, yellow, green, and black, forming a vivid contrast that draws attention. This careful work results in a product that is both functional and artistically striking.
Environmental and Cultural Impact of Varanasi Lacquerware
The craft’s eco-conscious approach helps preserve the local environment by using sustainable materials. Locally sourced wood and non-toxic lacquers ensure minimum environmental impact. Through this, the wooden lacquerware, including the Garuda Idol and Vishu Laxmi Idol, safeguards cultural heritage while promoting eco-friendliness.
This artistic tradition also enriches the livelihoods of artisan families in Varanasi. By supporting their craft, the community sustains its cultural identity and passes down valuable skills to future generations.
Why Choose the Vishnu Laxmi Garuda Idol for Your Home or Temple
The Idol is more than a decorative piece; it embodies spirituality, culture, and expert craftsmanship. Displaying this idol adds both aesthetic charm and spiritual grace to any space. Its beautiful colors and detailed carving make it a standout addition to home décor or temple collections.
Whether you seek a collectible item or a sacred artifact, the Vishnu Laxmi Garuda stands out for its unique blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and symbolism. It offers a meaningful way to connect with India's rich cultural roots through timeless wooden lacquer art.
| Art Work | Wooden Lacquerware |
| Period of Practice | 15 th Centuary |
| Artist Name | |
| Colour | Multicolor |
| Dimensions (H * W * L) | 9 in |
| Decoration Material | Wood |
| Theme | Ethnic, Mythology, Spirituality, and Art |
| Age Group | Adults |
| Shape | |
| Material | |
| Recommended Age Group | All ages |
| Art Work Authenticity | Original |
| Features | |
| Frame Style | |
| Painting Medium | |
| GI Tagged Info | Application No. 195 |
| Mounting Hardware | |
| Country Of Origin | India |
| Region | Vranasi , Uttarpradesh |
| Weight | 437 g |
| Volume |
Returns Policy
You may return most new, unopened items within 7 days of delivery for a full refund. We'll also pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error (you received an incorrect or defective item, etc.).
You should expect to receive your refund within four weeks of giving your package to the return shipper, however, in many cases you will receive a refund more quickly. This time period includes the transit time for us to receive your return from the shipper (5 to 10 business days), the time it takes us to process your return once we receive it (3 to 5 business days), and the time it takes your bank to process our refund request (5 to 10 business days).
If you need to return an item, simply login to your account, view the order using the "Complete Orders" link under the My Account menu and click the Return Item(s) button. We'll notify you via e-mail of your refund once we've received and processed the returned item.
Shipping
We can ship to virtually any address in the world. Note that there are restrictions on some products, and some products cannot be shipped to international destinations.
When you place an order, we will estimate shipping and delivery dates for you based on the availability of your items and the shipping options you choose. Depending on the shipping provider you choose, shipping date estimates may appear on the shipping quotes page.
Please also note that the shipping rates for many items we sell are weight-based. The weight of any such item can be found on its detail page. To reflect the policies of the shipping companies we use, all weights will be rounded up to the next full pound.
All our handicrafts are individually handmade by skilled artisans, making each piece unique. Due to the natural variations in raw materials and the handcrafting process, slight differences in colour, texture, and finish may occur compared to product images. These variations are a hallmark of authentic craftsmanship and add to the charm and individuality of every item.
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about our handcrafted products
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Materials vary by product and may include:
- Wood
- Marble
- Brass
- Clay
- Textiles
- Natural fibers
- Acrylic or Natural colors
Each product description includes detailed material information.
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Shipping typically takes 5-7 business days within India. International orders may take 10-15 business days depending on the destination.
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Yes, we offer customization on select products. Please contact us with your requirements and we'll work with our artisans to create something unique for you.
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We accept returns within 5 days of delivery. Items must be in original condition. Please note that customized items cannot be returned.
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Each product comes with specific care instructions. Generally, we recommend gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and avoiding harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.
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