Question

Define Bidri craftswork?

Answer 1

Bidri craft is practised in Bidar-Karnataka, in Andhra Pradesh and in Maharashtra – bordering Karnataka. The metal used is a blackened alloy of zinc and copper inlaid with thin sheets of pure silver. The forms are cast in moulds.The strong solution of copper sulphate that is used to coat the form gives it the black coating. Amonium chloride paste is also rubbed in to get a deep black. Silver wire or strips are pressed into the engraved designs and then buffed for the lustre.

Bidri craft units usually have several people working on the different stages of the production.