Walnut Wood Craft

By Rida Hussain

The craft of wood carving has existed in this region for years even before the creation of Pakistan. Woodcraft is counted among the major handicrafts of Pakistan. This craft of carving wood into different shapes and sizes with intricate designs is prevalent in several parts of the country from north to south.

The significance of wooden architecture takes a considerable space in the heritage of Pakistan. Several historical structures are made with wood in Pakistan. Azad Kashmir, Swat, parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, and Chiniot are the areas in Pakistan where the art of wood carving is prevalent and is a lucrative business.

The Famous Works

Interestingly, wooden architecture is an integral part of the Wakhi culture of Gilgit Baltistan. The Gojal valley in Gilgit Baltistan is home to numerous wooden architectures. Chaqchan Mosque in Gilgit Baltistan and Thal mosque in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are among the prominent wooden structures in Pakistan. Also, there are several old buildings in downtown Rawalpindi dating back to the Mughal era which are made of walnut wood. Artisans execute their mastery of carving wood into delicate pieces and designs using various types of woods grown in Pakistan.

What makes walnut wood unique?

Originally, walnut wood is hygroscopic implying that it absorbs moisture in the air to maintain a pleasant environment indoors which makes it the best raw material for making products related to home décor.

Types of wood that are widely used in construction in Pakistan are Deodar, walnut wood, teak, chirpine, fir, and hemlock. Walnut wood stands out in the category for not being too soft or too hard. Artisans call walnut wood the ‘jack of all trades. It smells great hence it is preferred in home décor or making products that are used in the interior decoration of homes and architecture.

Walnut is hard, heavy, resilient, and capable of resisting warping and suffering very little shrinkage. It is a strong wood that can take intricate carving. The grain of walnut wood is irregular but typically straight with a medium texture.

The creation of rabab requires a lot of skills and attention to meticulous details and intricacy hence walnut wood is best suited to make the instrument. Walnut wood is easy to bend and finish hence it makes the best raw material to create musical instruments.

A skilled artisan can make several items from walnut wood. From creating furniture, walnut wood is used to create lightweight objects like jewelry boxes, spoons to heavy objects like trunks, small chairs, tables, sofas, beds, and cupboards, trays, dry fruit bowls, tissue paper boxes, and table lamps.

Mostly walnut wood pieces with Quranic verses inscribed on them are in high demand in Pakistan as people hang these in homes. Artisans say that the old carved walnut wood looks better than other types of wood, hence it is in demand.

Artisans say designs and patterns can be carved on any wood but walnut wood is best for the purpose. Hence, products made up of walnut wood are often seen as having the most intricate and complex carvings. This quality of walnut wood gives a regal and luxurious look to the interior.

Rabab-a classical instrument

We all love the melody of rabab but did you know walnut wood is used to make rabab? Rabab largely dominates the region of Pukhtoon settlements and is widely played in Pakistan. The wood from the walnut tree are dried up and then carved into the instrument.

The Cultural Identity of Azad Kashmir

In Azad Jammu Kashmir of Pakistan, walnut trees grow abundantly. Leepa Valley and Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir are two major walnut producing areas. The significance of the craft of walnut wood can be measured by the fact that people place orders for walnut wood furniture in advance during the wedding season. Here, in Kashmir handing out items made from walnut wood to guests and tourists is considered a precious gift. Natives of Azad Kashmir believe walnut wood carving is part of their identity and culture which they have inherited from their forefathers.

Muzaffarabad has the potential to become the hub of walnut furniture, says the native population. Locals suggest that with concerted efforts of the government the small market can grow into an industry that can generate revenues for Pakistan. Artisans in Azad Kashmir say they are working hard to keep the craft alive.