Bidri Craft

Bidriware derives its name from Bidar. The 500 year old art is Persian in origin, but bidriware is purely Indian innovation. his art of engraving and inlaying is handed down by generations and is exclusive to Bidar which is still the chief centre for the manufacture of the unique metal ware. Due to its striking inlay artwork, bidriware is an important export  handicraft of India and is prized as a symbol of wealth. The metal ware is a metal handicraft from Bidar. It was developed in the 14th century C.E.  during the rule of the Bahamani Sultans.

 

Bidriware undergoes an eight-stage process: molding, smoothening by file, designing by chisels, engraving by chisel and hammer, pure silver inlaying, smoothening again, buffing and finally oxidising by soil and ammonium chloride .Bidriware is manufactured  from an alloy of copper and zinc in the ratio 1:16 by casting. The zinc content gives the alloy a deep black color.