Metal craft of Karnataka is an all pervading craft that is not confined to any particular area or city. While some regions are famous for bronze casting, others are known for bell metal works. Metal work industry is an important part of Karnataka people and numerous families are involved in this industry and earn their livelihood from it.
The metal craft of Karnataka has a notable feature and the articles created out of metal serve religious purposes and secular needs. Karkala, famous for Jain statues and Udupi are the major centers for such works. Mangalore is famous for the bell metal works and Nagamangala is famous for bronze casting. The artisans of Karnataka create most attractive pieces of bronze work includes the human figures. Karnataka is the abode of a unique damascene metal work technique known as `Bidri` which has Iranian designs on to a metal alloy composed of lead, copper, zinc and tin, which they blackened and polished. This craftsmanship has gained a full-fledged form with the influential involvement of typical Islamic features in design and decoration. Finely crafted pieces such as hookahs, goblets, paan boxes and bangles were exquisitely embellished with interwoven creepers and floral patterns. The effect of the delicate silver filigree against the ebony toned background was scintillating.
The metal craft of Karnataka has flourished in all aspects of its creativity and popularity. According to the history, the craftsmen of Karnataka have won many accolades from the kings and queens for their scintillating works. Even in present age, the metal craft of Karnataka is earning recognition around the world for the same magnificence.
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