Exhibit of the week- 153 (04th to 10th May 2023)

Exhibit of the week- 153
(04th to 10th May 2023)

SURAHI, (Umar Khayam)
A spouted jug of Bidri work

Bidri is a popular craft flourished in the city of Bidar, Karnataka during the rule of Bahmani Sultans in the 14th century. This art form is believed to have originated in Persia and artisans from Persia came to Bidar and trained artisans to create masterpieces for royal families. Zinc, copper and lead are the main raw materials of bidriware. Gold, silver and brass wires are used for inlay. The present object is a beautiful surahi with intricate floral and geometric designs in silver work.

The making process of bidriware includes four steps- molding, carving, inlaying and oxidizing. In the first stage artisan cast the item by molding. The mixture of red and fine clay and cow dung are used to make the mould. Zinc and copper in the proportion of 16:1 with other non-ferrous metals are used to prepare the solution. This molten alloy solution is poured into the vacant space of mould. In the second stage, the vessel is dipped into the copper sulphate solution for blackning the metallic surface. This procedure helps the designer to draw the design on a dark surface. The craftsman uses small chisels to engrave the design over the freehand etching. Fine wire or flattened strips of pure silver are then carefully hammered into these grooves. Oxidizing or blackening is the fourth stage which marks the process of imparting a permanent black colour on the surface without damaging the inlay. “For blackening the base material sulphate containing salt ammoniac is mixed in sufficient water and the solution is boiled in an open iron vessel on a charcoal hearth. The finished article is then given a dip in this hot solution. The zinc alloy turns into a permanently jet black colour while the silver retains its purity. Lastly the artisan polish the article by the paste of charcoal powder mixed with groundnut oil with the help of muslin cloth for good shine.

Acc. No. 2017.337
Local Name : SURAHI, (Umar Khayam), A spouted jug of Bidri work
Community: Folk

Locality: Bidar, Karnataka

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