Short answer
How do I order a marble murti made to my own requirements?
Prepare the key details first: the deity, form and posture, the height you need, reference images, your marble and finish preferences, where the murti will be placed and the date you need it by. Share these with the maker, who will usually confirm what is achievable and send a written quotation. Production begins once you approve the specification, and the time needed depends on the size and complexity of the murti.
When a custom murti makes sense
A custom murti is worth considering when you need a particular size to fit an existing mandir or sanctum, a form or iconography that is not commonly available, a matching set, or a murti that replaces or complements one your family or temple already has. If a ready piece is close to what you want, it is also worth asking whether a small change is possible, as that can be simpler than a fully new commission.
Information to prepare
The more clearly you describe what you want, the more accurate the quotation will be. Before you enquire, try to gather the following:
| Detail | What to include |
|---|---|
| Deity | The deity or deities, and any regional or family form you follow. |
| Form and posture | Seated, standing or other posture; number of arms; mudras; what each hand holds; vahana; the direction of Ganesh's trunk, if relevant. |
| Height | The total height you need and whether it includes the base or pedestal. Also give the internal size of the space. |
| Reference images | Clear photographs or drawings of the look you want, noting which features matter most. |
| Marble | Any preference for colour or type of marble, or simply the look you are hoping for. |
| Finish | Plain polished marble, painted details, full colour, or gold work. |
| Placement | Home mandir, temple sanctum, office or outdoors, and the viewing distance. |
| Date needed | The date of a festival, griha pravesh or pratishtha, and how firm it is. |
How the quotation and approval process usually works
Makers work in different ways, but a custom order commonly follows these steps.
- Enquiry: you share your requirements and reference images.
- Discussion: the maker asks questions and explains what is practical in marble at that size.
- Quotation: a written quotation sets out the specification, the price, packing and shipping, and the expected timeline.
- Confirmation: you approve the specification and the terms, including any payment schedule.
- Production: the murti is carved and finished. Some makers share progress photographs at key stages.
- Final check: it is common to review photographs or a video of the finished piece before it is packed.
- Packing and dispatch.
Our process, payment arrangements and terms will be set out clearly in your quotation. You can read more about the service on our custom marble murtis page.
What a reference photo can and cannot tell a carver
A reference photograph is extremely helpful, but it is worth being realistic about what it can achieve. Every hand-carved murti is an original piece, and natural marble has its own character.
- Can usually be followed closely: the posture, the number of arms, what each hand holds, the style of crown and ornaments, the overall proportions and the colour scheme of painted details.
- Can be matched in spirit but not exactly: facial expression, the fine pattern of jewellery and clothing, and the exact depth of carving, since these are interpreted by the carver's hand.
- Cannot be matched: the veining and tone of the marble in the photograph, because every block of stone is different, and details hidden from view, such as the back of the murti, unless you provide more images.
- May need adjusting: very thin or projecting features that are practical in metal or resin can be fragile in marble, so a carver may suggest thickening or supporting them.
Marble and finish choices
Tell us whether you want a bright white, a softer creamy white, or a coloured or black stone, and whether you prefer plain polished marble or painted and gold details. We will explain which marbles and finishes are suitable for your design and confirm them in writing in the quotation.
What affects the timeline
Production time depends mainly on the height and bulk of the murti, the complexity of the carving, the number of figures, the finish, and the availability of a suitable block of marble. Painted and gold work adds further time. Shipping, particularly by sea, must be added on top. If you are working towards a fixed date, mention it at the start so the maker can tell you honestly whether it is achievable.
Changes after approval
Marble is carved by removing stone, so some changes are straightforward early on and impossible later. Reducing the size of a feature can sometimes be done; adding material back cannot. Agree the specification carefully before carving begins, and ask how change requests are handled once work is under way.
Things to keep in mind
- Give the total height and say whether it includes the base.
- Send reference images from several angles and say which details matter most.
- The marble's veining and tone cannot be matched to a photograph, as every block is different.
- Mention any fixed date at the start, and allow for shipping time as well as production.
- Agree the specification in writing before carving begins.
FAQ
Common questions
Can you make a murti from a photograph I send?
A photograph is a very useful starting point. The posture, attributes and overall style can usually be followed closely, while the face and fine details are interpreted by the carver. We will tell you what is achievable before you confirm the order.
How long does a custom marble murti take?
It depends on the size, the complexity of the carving, the finish and the marble. We will give you a timeline for your specific design in the quotation, and shipping time is additional.
Will I see the murti before it is shipped?
For custom work, it is reasonable to ask for photographs or a video of the finished murti before it is packed. We will confirm how final approval works for your order in the quotation.
Can a custom murti match one I already own?
It can be made to complement an existing murti in size, style and finish, especially if you send clear photographs and measurements. The marble itself will not match exactly, because natural stone varies from block to block.
