Crafts of India — Bidriware

A beautiful amalgam of metals such as copper and zinc, Bidri contains the pure qualities of both the metals. The black color of the Bidri metal is obtained from zinc while copper contributes to the temporary color of the metal. Several intricate designs have been experimented with this type of metal while maintaining the visual and aesthetic appeal intact. Bidri art is indeed a treat for art collectors and connoisseurs all across the world.

ORIGIN & HISTORY

A legacy that started two thousand years ago, today Bidri art is counted among the most popular forms of metalwork that dwells in various forms. Introduced by numerous rulers from different parts of the country, this art holds a significant position in the ancient pottery, handicrafts and, cutlery.

This art was originated in the beautiful lands of Karnataka. It was introduced in India by the Bahami sultans who reigned over the Bidar lands during the 13th to 15th centuries. There has been no change in the manufacturing process of Bidri art since its inception.

The Persians, Iranians, and Syrians are believed to have introduced this art to the world. This art has been handed down to various succeeding generations among the local Muslim and Lingayat sects since its inception. Bidri ware is considered to be an important source of income for the people of India as it is the most exported items in the form of handicraft, and this is the very reason why it symbolizes the wealth and heritage of India.

TOOLS AND RAW MATERIALS

1. Metals: Zinc- molten alloy and copper are the main important raw materials used in Bidri craft making.
2. File and Buffering Machine: Different types of buffing blades are used to smoothen the surface of the article.
3. Copper Sulphate: It is applied to the casted object to obtain temporary black coating on the article so that it is easy to sketch the design over a dark background.
4. Chisel: Used to engrave the design on the article.
5. Old Soil: It is mixed with ammonium to give permanent black coating on the article.
6. Silver Wire: Used to engrave in the design grooves.
7. Brass Metal Wire: Brass metal wire is inlayed to enhance the outer appeal of the product.
8. Coconut Oil: Once the product is made, coconut oil is applied to deepen the black matt coating.
9. Bidri fort Mitti: Bidri fort mitti-clay is boiled and products are dipped in the mitti solution to obtain permanent black color.
10. Carving Tools: Carving tools such as chisel, hammer, filers, rasps are used while engraving and inlaying process.

Soil used in mould making process.

Frames used while casting to make metal objects.

Furnace used to melt metals.

Sander stone, compass and other point edged tools. | Different types of holders and hammers.

Buffing machine and Bidri fort soil.

MAKING OF BIDRIWARE

1. The alloy, the raw material is melted | 2. boric powder is sprinkled on the clay-filled mould.

3. The frame is placed on the metal | 4. The frame is filled with clay and stamped on it.

5. The mould is ready for the casting process. | 6. Melted metal is poured into the mould.

7. The casted metal product is removed and buffed. | 8. Copper sulphate is applied to a temporary black colour. | 9. Temporary blackening helps to draw the designs.

10. The design to be engraved is drawn on the surface and chiselled.

11. Brass metal wire is interposed into the groves to enhance the outer look of the design. | 12. The final product is rubbed with coconut oil to enhance the black colour.

13. The inlayed product is ready for buffing process. | 14.Buffing is done to make the surface smooth.

15. Bidri Matti (soil) is boiled at high temperature. | 16. The bidri product is added to the boiling solution.

17. Bidri Matti is used to polish the article, which enables permanent black colour –a characteristic of bidriware. | 18. The final product is rubbed with coconut oil to enhance the black colour.

INLAYING METHODS

• Tarkashi done using silver wires.
• Flower and petal motifs are created with silver sheet is called taihnishan.
• Mehatabi kaam, the reversal of surfaces where the design is cut out in sheet metal and is inlaid. Embossed design is said as Munnavat kari.

PRODUCTS

The traditional Bidri products are a symbol of royal life, aesthetically adorns living spaces. Products such as hookah, shehnai — flower vase are created with Mughal motifs and star motifs, surai-type of vase in different shape and motif, ugaldaan, boxes, zalabchi, muqaba or round containers with dome-shaped lids, flower vases. Images of animals like elephant, horse camel are created. Birds like peacock, swan also include in the products.

THEMES

Many of Bidri themes are inspired by Mughal motifs presented in geometrical and flower patterns. Bidri creations have a traditional name according to the style of creation. Verses from the Quran in Arabic script are also included in the themes.