The tradition of wood-carving has existed in India from ancient times and is continued till today.
A carved door with a frame and fittings can cost upwards of Rs.25,000. The more imposing designs boast of a 10- inch wide and three- inch thick frame with a portion running across the floor as a threshold.
There are several antique furniture shops that sell anything from wooden loungers to dining tables, four-poster beds and pillars.
However, it’s the demand for carved doors that has the owners of these shops going on a sourcing spree — usually, the materials and designs come from old buildings that are being demolished.
Perfect for those who like antique and traditional designs, these carved doors and doorframes made in teak and rose wood range from about Rs 20,000 to Rs 2 lakh, based on the carving and thickness. ‘‘What is most important is that you match the door with the general décor in your home. For example, if you have minimalist décor, an intricately carved door will probably stick out awkwardly.
So do not go in for such doors unless you have a country house or ethnic or similar décor patterns,’’ says Angela Murray, design consultant.
Flowers to dancing girls Intricate carving on rose and teak wood depict proportionate and detailed figures of dancing girls, the lotus and other flowers, peacocks, monkeys, squirrels, even Hindu deities, all coming together to radiate a unique elegance and style. Brass and iron rivets or kumzhils adorn the doors, forming the centres of flowers and geometrical patterns.
Buying in the city Since not everyone can head furniture stores in Pondicherry for a quick buy, you can check stores like Lepakshi in the City.
Know your wood Teak and rose wood were popular in the old days, with a few people settling for jack wood. ‘‘If you are looking for a carved pooja room door, then rose wood is fine. But since it is a wood that is very sensitive to weather and prone to shrinking, warping and cracking, do not go in for a rose wood exterior door,’’ cautions Suresh. If you see a rose wood door you love, do not despair — such doors can be converted into stunning dining tables or writing tables. The door is mounted on suitably ornate legs, with a thick glass mounted above it. Carved doors are available from Rs 78,000 onwards.
Made to order Antiques can be quite expensive but you can get reproductions that weather well for a much lesser price. Check out Wood Palace Handicraft & Door Carving at Gosha Mahal, where new doors are on display.
Maintenance If you live in a dusty area, use a soft bristle brush to clean the indents of the carvings at least once a week. A polish would do nicely once in three years. And never resort to painting the doors, no matter how great the urge to add a bit of colour.