Brass wire inlay work on wood is the main feature of Tarkashi, a popular art form from Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh. Primarily used for khadaous (wooden sandals), it is currently seen in jewellery boxes, name plaques, and other products of a like nature.

The artform

A distinctive and creative product of the district, Tarkashi can be seen on doors, tables, flower pots, sandook (chests), trays, lamps, and other decorative items. In Mainpuri, sheesham wood is typically used for this art. Using a piece of paper as a template, the design is carved into narrow, deep grooves on a hard block of wood. After that, a hammer is used to tap the wires into place inside the grooves.

GI tag

Mainpuri Tarkashi was conferred the GI tag in 2023.