Carved Indian Stone Jharoka Panel From Jaisalmer - 19th Century

This 19^th century Indian carved stone window from the Jaisalmer area, Rajasthan is known locally as a jharokha or jharoka. This window is carved from a single piece of limestone by master artisans. Jaisalmer stone is considered the very pinnacle of secular architectural carving. The old city of Jaisalmer is so beautiful it has achieved UNESCO World Heritage Status. 

Jharokha were built into the fabric of buildings and gave privacy while allowing a cooling breeze to enter the building. They were used in stone havelis - the stylish homes of the more wealthy. It takes a week to mark out and carve out the rough shape of the stone. Details are marked out with a red paste and multiple stonemasons would work on a single piece. If an unfinished work breaks during carving, it will be discarded as repairs were not permitted according to the ancient traditions. 

Rajasthani stone masons usually trained as unpaid apprentices from the age of 10. Until the age of 15, the disciples will work on paper or slate and then carve soft soapstone. Their first carving is always of Ganesh, the God of Auspicious Beginnings. Only after this will they be allowed to carry out paid work. 

The below photograph shows a similar jharokha in Kuldhara Village near Jaisalmer to demonstrate how these pieces of art were used. The second photograph was taken in Jaisalmer old town of an old haveli. 

Specifications:
Suitable for indoor & outdoor use.
Please note that it is a heavy item that must be fixed securely to a wall.
This panel has strong wall hangers attached to the back.