Mysore is known for its regal and vintage charm, traditional culture and craftsmanship. Rosewood Inlay Work of Mysore, which has a Geographical Indication Tag (GI Tag), stands out as a timeless testament to the city’s rich artisanal legacy. This intricate art form blends the warmth of wood with the brilliance of hand-crafted detail, creating pieces as regal as the city itself. During our visit to the royal city of Mysore as part of the Discover Mysuru programme organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, we were privileged to visit Arun Fine Arts in Mysuru, where we learned first-hand the intricacies of the exquisite craft of Rosewood Inlay Work.
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Stories Carved in Wood – Mysore Rosewood Inlay Work
Rosewood Inlay Work, or “Kundana Kale” as it is known locally, is a decorative art in which intricate designs are carved onto rosewood surfaces and then filled with delicate materials such as ivory (historically), acrylic, plastic, bone, or metal. The final result is a beautifully contrasting pattern that showcases both the depth of the carving and the artisan’s skill. This craft is most commonly seen on furniture, wall panels, trays, jewellery boxes, doors, and even musical instruments, often depicting traditional motifs such as vines, elephants, peacocks, deities, or scenes from Indian epics.
Getting Close To Mysore Rosewood Inlay
“Arun Fine Arts – Arts & Crafts,” said a board near a narrow staircase in a small lane of the Mandi Mohalla area of Mysore. We were there to learn more about the Rosewood Inlay work of Mysore. We were greeted and welcomed by Ashok, who is the owner of Arun Fine Arts. He briefed us about the genesis of his company in 1968, started by his father, who had learned the craft from Mir Shoukat Ali, a National Award Winner. We spent an hour or so understanding the process of the famed Rosewood Inlay Work of Mysore.
History Of Mysore Rosewood Inlay Work
The craft of Rosewood Inlay Work is believed to be over 2.000 years old. Its origins are traced to Japan, from where the knowledge of the exquisite craft moved to Egypt, Persia, and China. After that, it is believed to have come to India. It is fascinating to note that the entire Taj Mahal is based on this kind of marble inlay technique. The craft was predominant in the northern region of India; however, with the rise of the great Vijayanagara Empire, many of the craftsmen migrated there.
Later, with the fall of the Vijayanagara Empire, the craftsmen with this priceless craft migrated to Mysore, which was under the rule of the Wodeyars, who were great patrons of art, and thus took root the lovely craft of Rosewood Inlay Work of Mysore. The craft of Mysore Rosewood Inlay Work is now more than 150 years old.
According to Ashok, the Mysore Gazette records that the craft of Rosewood Inlay was introduced to Mysore by the Mysore Maharajah in 1870.
Thus, the roots of rosewood inlay work in Mysore date back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries, during the reign of the Wodeyar dynasty. The Wodeyars were great patrons of the arts, and under their rule, Mysore flourished as a centre for music, dance, painting, and handicrafts. The first inlay work workshop in Mysore was opened in 1870 by Yusuf Ali, named Yusuf Ali and Sons. According to Ashok, six generations of this family worked only to embellish the beauty and grandeur of the Mysore Palace.
Examples of their beautiful craft can be seen across the interiors of the grand Mysore Palace, prominently on ivory inlaid doors. They also made ornamented showpieces, boxes, musical instruments, and more, which used to be given as gifts to visiting dignitaries from across the world by the Mysore Maharajahs.
During this period, inlay artisans, many of whom were originally from Rajasthan and Gujarat, settled in Mysore and began developing a distinct local style. They adapted traditional North Indian techniques to suit the materials and aesthetics of the South, using locally sourced rosewood, known for its durability and rich dark colour.
Over time, the Mysore inlay craft evolved from temple decorations and royal commissions into more accessible forms, enabling art lovers worldwide to bring a piece of Mysore’s elegance into their homes. For centuries, rosewood inlay work was confined to the corridors of royalty and nobility. The credit for bringing this esoteric craft to the common man goes to Mir Shaukat Ali, who began making small-sized decorative wall pieces.
Mysore Rosewood Inlay Work – Making of A Masterpiece
Creating a single piece of Mysore rosewood inlay, irrespective of its dimensions, is a labour-intensive process that requires precision, patience, and years of experience. The entire process consists of nine steps, however, this can be broadly described under the four processes described here:
- Sketching: The process begins with a hand-drawn sketch on the rosewood surface. Artisans often choose traditional motifs like floral designs, animals, or mythological scenes.
- Carving the Base: Using small chisels and knives, the artisan carefully carves out the design from the rosewood surface, creating tiny grooves and depressions.
- Inlaying Materials: Pieces of acrylic, ivory, or metal are then hand-cut to fit perfectly into the carved spaces. This step demands exceptional attention to detail.
- Polishing and Finishing: Once all pieces are inlaid, the surface is sanded and polished. The final product reveals a rich contrast between the dark rosewood and the bright inlaid material, resulting in a stunning visual effect.
What emerges after the process is a masterpiece, a piece of art, that is in itself an ode to the mastery of its craftsmen, and also a piece of tradition and history.
Evolution of Mysore Rosewood Inlay Work
The craft of Mysore Rosewood Inlay work has undergone many changes in keeping with the times. While ivory was historically used due to its soft texture and striking colour contrast, its use has been phased out due to ethical and legal reasons. The use of ivory was banned in 1970. Today’s artisans use sustainable alternatives like acrylic, plastic, other types of wood, or resin, which offer similar aesthetic appeal and are also environmentally friendly.
Modern artisans are also experimenting with contemporary themes and abstract designs, ensuring that the craft remains relevant in today’s evolving art market. Some have begun incorporating metal inlays, colored lacquers, and laser-cut precision, blending tradition with innovation.
Despite its elegance and historical significance, the rosewood inlay craft of Mysore faces several challenges today. With the rise of mass-produced furniture and home décor, many traditional artisans find it difficult to compete. There is also a lack of awareness and appreciation for handcrafted products among younger consumers.
Efforts by organisations like the Karnataka Handicrafts Development Corporation (KHDC) and several artisan cooperatives have helped to keep the tradition alive. These bodies provide training, marketing support, and access to national and international exhibitions.
Families of traditional Mysore Rosewood Inlay work craftsmen, like that of Ashok, are keeping alive this wonderful traditional craft and also using innovation and modern techniques to enhance it.
If you are visiting Mysore, a trip to Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium is a must. Here, you can see a wide variety of rosewood inlay items—each a blend of tradition and meticulous craftsmanship. For a more immersive experience, some workshops in the Nazarbad and Mandi Mohalla areas welcome visitors and even offer short demonstrations of the inlay process.
Mysore Rosewood Inlay GI Tag: Preserving Royal Craftsmanship
The Mysore rosewood inlay GI tag is a recognition of one of India’s finest traditional crafts that blends precision, patience, and artistic flair. Known for its intricate motifs and use of ivory or acrylic on rich rosewood surfaces, this heritage craft has been practiced in Mysore since the days of the Wodeyars. From elaborate rosewood inlay paintings to functional home décor, these products reflect the unmatched skill of artisans who keep this legacy alive. If you are looking for authentic rosewood inlay products, Mysore remains the heart of this timeless art form.
Popular Rosewood Inlay Products
- Rosewood inlay wall panels
- Rosewood inlay paintings
- Rosewood inlay coffee tables
- Decorative trays with inlay designs
- Jewelry boxes with intricate motifs
- Inlay mirrors and frames
- Traditional furniture with rosewood inlay work
- Nameplates and customized souvenirs
Rosewood Inlay Work- A Legacy To Be Preserved
Rosewood Inlay work is more than just decoration—it is a cultural narrative carved into hardwood. It represents generations of skill passed down through families, and a unique facet of India’s artistic soul. In a world increasingly driven by automation and mass production, crafts like this remind us of the beauty of human hands, patient artistry, and the stories etched into every detail.
Watch the Art of Mysore Rosewood Inlay Work
Click below to watch our video and explore the timeless beauty and craftsmanship behind Mysore’s iconic rosewood inlay work:
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Let the artistry of tradition inspire your next journey!
We hope you enjoyed reading about the intricate and timeless art of Mysore Rosewood Inlay work — a craft that beautifully captures the soul of Mysore’s rich heritage. The next time you visit Mysore — or even if you are shopping online—consider bringing home a piece of this exquisite art. Owning a rosewood inlay painting or handcrafted décor is not just about buying an object; it is about preserving a piece of history and celebrating Indian craftsmanship.
If you liked this post, do share it with your family and friends, and feel free to spread the word on your social media handles. Let us keep this incredible art alive by inspiring more people to appreciate and support traditional artisans.
And do not miss the chance to explore the stunning inlay work of Arun Fine Arts, Mysore — a name known for authentic craftsmanship and breathtaking designs. Check it out here.
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Sandy & Vyjay are a husband and wife duo who are travel content creators. They are co-founders of this travel website and are one of the leading travel content creators in India.
Sandy & Vyjay quit their successful corporate careers to pursue their passion for travel and writing full-time. Their dedication has earned them the “Best Travel Writer” award and numerous accolades on both national and international stages. Focusing on India’s destinations, heritage, and culture, they are passionate advocates for nature and the environment. Through their content, they promote ecotourism and sustainable travel, inspiring others to explore and preserve the beauty of India.
