Ladakh Shingskos (Wood Carving)
Wood (Carving)
History
Wood carving, one of humanity’s oldest crafts, plays a key role in ornate architecture. Ladakh’s distinct woodwork, known for its spiritual and artistic value, earned a GI (Geographical Indication) tag in April 2023, bringing global recognition. Praised by Prime Minister Modi, this status is expected to boost artisans and promote Ladakh’s cultural heritage. The painted wood carvings, often seen in monasteries, serve both decorative and devotional purposes in religious settings.
Raw Materials and Tools
Raw Materials: Willow; Wild walnut wood; Wood (plant material); Teak (wood).
Tools: Saw, chisel, hammer, sand paper.
Process
Wood carving is done using locally available wood from walnut, willow, and apricot trees. The required tools are a zagham (toolbox), a knapsack (sandpaper), a jandar (sharpening tool), chisels, a saw, measuring tape, and gouges. This craft is mostly found in the Wania and Cjoglamasar districts of Leh.
Design and Color
Ladakhi woodcraft features a wide variety of carved wooden articles, often painted in vibrant colors for added decorative appeal. Common motifs include Buddhist deities, mandalas, Himalayan landscapes, animals, and floral patterns. The eight auspicious symbols of Ladakh—thungs (umbrella), sernya (golden fish), pungra (treasure vase), padma (lotus), tung (conch), spalpi (auspicious drawing), gyaltstan (victory), and khorlo (wheel)—are frequently carved and used as ornamental pieces.
Product Range
Prayer wheels, window frames, folding tables, and religious artefacts are painted intrinsically using paintbrushes. These painted items are used in weddings, religious rituals, and other special occasions. Moreover, this craft is famous for making folding tables, known as choktse in local parlance, which are used to serve guests in Ladakh.