Bidri | Bronze
Idols | Budhithi | Dokra | Sheet Metal | Filigree
BIDRI
 Bidri is a metal craft of
silver inlay on metal. The art has derived its name from Bidar, which is said to be
its place of origin. It is from here that it is brought to Hyderabad. The basic metal used
is the alloy of copper and Zinc , oxidised and intricately inlaid with silver.
The work dating back to over 300 years, is
said to have actually originated in Iran and brought
down by the migrants to the Sultans of Bahmani dynasty. The art once expressed the zeal of
the warriors to decorate their ornaments of valour (swords, daggers, lances and shields)
and the aesthetic values of the Mughals. Traditionally, Bidri was used to make cot
legs, hookahs, pan box, etc. But today, Bidri has been artistically put in to produce
vases, cuff links, earrings, small statues, cigarette box, ashtrays and more.
The actual making of Bidri work involves four main phases of –
- Casting : The articles are first cast by pouring the
molten solution of copper and zinc (1:16) into the moulds of red clay. The surface of the
cast is then filed and smoothened with sandpaper. It is then coated with a solution of
copper sulphate to create impart a dark surface.
- Engraving : The chosen designs are then traced by
hand, engraved with the help of chisels.
- Inlaying : A pure silver and rarely gold wire or
sheet is hammered into the engraved design outlines. The surface is once again smoothened
with the help of sandpaper and files or with the help of a buffing machine.
- Oxidising : Finally the articles are heated gently
and treated with a solution of ammonium chloride, copper sulphate, potassium nitrate and
old mud taken from old fort buildings. The mud makes the surface turn jet black providing
a distinct contrast to the shining silver inlay, making the work unique from the other
metal works. Finally, it is rubbed with oil to deepen the black coating.
Today, the artisans make artifacts in Tarqashi (concentric
lines), Lala or Tar work ( Curvilinear), Phulzadi (cross), Sheet or Pathar work Mehtabi
(the reverse of sheet work) and a rich combination of any or all these designs. Gold is
also used off and on in place of Silver.
Government is taking measures to preserve and sustain
these arts through Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation(APHDC). Bidriware is
available in the twin cities in the price range of Rs.10 to Rs.50000 in all the handicraft
emporiums. However, Bidri Heritage in Masab Tank and Bidri Crafts in Abids are exclusive
for the work. |
