Ethically-sourced from master craftsmen in Udaipur and Jodphur, our Indian bone inlay furniture are some of our most coveted pieces. An incredible accent item for any room, learn more about how these handcrafted furnishings are made and why they’re worthy of a spot in your abode.
WHAT IS BONE INLAY?
Bone inlay refers to an ancient decorative technique that involves embedding delicate, hand-carved pieces of bone into the surface of an object. The result makes for a striking pattern–often floral or geometric–of contrasting colours and materials that add surface splendour to any room.
The origins of the technique are murky, but what we do know is that it has transcended countries, centuries and civilisations, with evidence of it in the embellished furniture of ancient Egypt, lacquerware of 18th Century Japan, and the architecture erected during India’s Mughal Empire.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The process of inlaying begins with a design or pattern which is carved out from a material. In our case it’s either mother of pearl or cruelty-free polished bone from camels that have died of natural causes, but it can be done with wood, metal, marble and ivory. Then, with a base object (our furnishings are wood), impressions are made to match said pattern or design so that the delicate pieces of bone can be meticulously inserted onto the surface. The carved bone pieces are then surrounded by contrasting resin for an immaculately smooth finish.
Handcrafted from start to finish by artisans who have learnt techniques passed down through generations, no two pieces of bone inlay furniture are the same. Regardless of the size or inlay pattern, these furnishings take a minimum of three weeks to produce and require remarkable levels of patience, neatness, artistry and expertise.
WHY ADD INDIAN BONE INLAY FURNITURE TO YOUR HOME?
Ornate and eye-catching, bone inlay furniture make striking home décor pieces. It has the ability to tie a whole space together, adding a dash of excitement with its individual character and tapestry of colours, textures and patterns. And while the style has ancient roots, we’re confident that these furnishings have a place in a contemporary home, and that it’s an art form that has, and will continue to, stand the test of time.
If you’d like to learn more about our Indian bone inlay furniture–three-drawer tables, chest draws, mirrors and more–please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Please note that we only work with ethical suppliers who use the bone of camels that have died of natural causes; no animals were killed for the purpose of making these items. We source a select number of bone inlay furniture in limited colourways, so if you have your heart set on something specific we recommend pre-ordering to avoid missing out.
