The Antiquities of Orissa v1.c10.248

v1.c10.248

but the *Dalbergia ougeinensis* and the mango should never be used separately; the last may be used for the legs of bedsteads, but the frame work should be of some stronger wood. The sandal wood is good enough by itself; but it is most highly prized when [102] mounted with gold and jewels.¹¹⁴ But the best of all materials for bedsteads, according to the *Bṛhat Saṃhitā*, is ivory. It should be used solid for the legs, and in thin plates for inlaying on the frame-work which should be of some choice wood. In selecting ivory about two thicknesses at the root of the tusk, which is hollow, should be rejected, if the animal from which it is taken come from the plain; but if it be a mountain grazer, somewhat less.¹¹⁵ Great stress is also laid on the venation of the ivory. If the figures formed by the venation be of auspicious objects, the substance is good, otherwise it should be rejected. In the case of wood venation is approved, but large knots, hollows, and perforations by worms or insects, are strongly condemned, and detailed descriptions are given of the different kinds of misfortune which await the unfortunate wight who happens to sleep on a bedstead with knots in the end, in the shaft, in the globular central bulging, or in the top of its legs. The frame-work, according to the authority quoted, should have mouldings above and below, or be carved in various ornamental figures, or inlaid with gold, ivory and precious stones.