Dhokra Art and Craft

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Dhokra Art Craft
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About Dhokra Art

• The BELL METAL or DHOKRA is one of the earliest
  known method of metal casting. This craft dates
  back to pre-historic time of Harrappa and
  Mohenjodaro period of Indus Civilization.
• Dhokra metal casting is perhaps the only living
  tradition of metal image making in Eastern India.
  The technique has managed to survive many
  centuries and change of dynasties owing to its
  modesty of application in everyday lives of
  traditional tribal people of Chhattisgarh, Madhya
  Pradesh, Orissa West Bengal INDIA.
• Artwork is done with hand, without any
  advancement of technology.

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• The unique 13 stage process of DHOKRA/BELL METAL
  making is the original creative instinct of the
  craft persons, which is a beautiful amalgation of
  art and science.
• The ancient art of cire-perdue or lost wax thread
  method of metal casting is still used by the
  tribal people over the last 200 years. They do
  not attempt to dominate or outwit the natural
  forces. But have learnt to live in harmony with
  them. All available natural resources are
  utilized to their optimum potential.
• The DHOKRA/BELL METAL castings of figurines and
  different animals with their antique look, fits
  in with interior decor. DHOKRA/BELL METAL is an
  alloy of brass, nickel and zinc that gives an
  antique effects of the castings.

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• Earlier craftsmen used to create only traditional
  ritualistic items and decorative pieces but now
  with new designs inputs, there has been a lot of
  product diversification, resulting in numerous
  innovative utility items like door handles, lamp
  shades, hangers, boxes and caskets of different
  shapes and sizes.
• The motifs used are generally taken from the
  nature. Elephants, Turtles, etc are made at large
  in Dhokra craft. The images of various deities
  are also crafted by the artisans of the state.
• Tribals practice the traditional "Lost Wax
  Technique" to craft their imaginations. They use
  wax, resin and firewood from the forests, clay
  from the riverbed and make the firing oven in a
  hole dug in the ground. Through the craft the
  artists present the different aspects of life.

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• Explore an exquisite collection of Dhokra art
  craft products only at www.craftfurnish.com