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9" Shehnai Flower Vase With Silver Work | Bidri Artwork | Gunmetal

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Name: 9" Shehnai Flower Vase With Silver Work | Bidri Artwork | Gunmetal
Brand: Exotic India
SKU: DDE628
Price: 395.00 USD
Availability: InStock

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Item Code:	DDE628
Specifications:	Gunmetal With Real Silver
Height:	9.25 inch
Width:	4.7 inch
Depth:	4.7 inch
Weight:	1.25 kg

Handmade

Free delivery

Fully insured

100% Made in India

Fair trade

Introducing Exquisite Bidriware: A Masterpiece of Indian Craftsmanship

This stunning 9-inch Shehnai-shaped vase is a testament to the artistry of Bidriware, a centuries-old metalcraft tradition from India. Its elegant form, reminiscent of a traditional shehnai (double reed wind instrument), is enhanced by intricate silver inlay work on a gunmetal base. The vase’s unique shape and detailed embellishments make it a captivating centerpiece for any home decor setting. This is not merely a vase; it's a piece of living history, a tangible link to India's rich cultural heritage.

The Allure of Bidriware

Bidriware is a unique metalcraft known for its distinctive dark gunmetal base inlaid with intricate silver (or sometimes gold) designs. The technique involves casting an alloy of zinc and copper, then meticulously carving designs into the surface. These designs are then filled with pure silver using the ancient lost-wax casting method. The resulting contrast between the dark metal and the gleaming silver creates an exquisite visual effect that is both elegant and timeless. Each piece is handcrafted, ensuring a unique character and subtle variations that add to its charm. This particular piece displays a captivating floral pattern, enhancing the beauty of its shehnai form. The intricate details reflect the immense skill and patience of the artisans who created it.

A Timeless Elegance for Your Home

This Bidriware vase is more than just a decorative item; it’s a statement piece. Its sophisticated design will seamlessly blend into various interior styles, from modern minimalist to traditional classic. Whether placed on a mantelpiece, a side table, or a bookshelf, this vase adds a touch of refinement and exotic charm to your living space. Its substantial size and commanding presence ensure it will become a focal point of any room. It's ideal for displaying fresh cut flowers, dried botanicals, or simply as a stand-alone objet d'art. This piece is also a perfect gift for a housewarming, anniversary, or any special occasion for someone who appreciates unique and handcrafted items.

Craftsmanship and Heritage

Each Bidriware piece is a testament to the dedication and skill of generations of artisans. The process of creating Bidriware is intricate and labor-intensive, requiring considerable skill and precision. This vase showcases the mastery of this ancient craft, embodying the rich cultural heritage of India. By owning this piece, you’re not just acquiring a beautiful object; you're actively supporting and preserving this unique and valuable tradition. This stunning vase ensures that a piece of Indian history and craftsmanship becomes a cherished part of your home.

Care and Preservation

To maintain the beauty of your Bidriware vase, it's recommended to handle it gently and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. A soft, dry cloth is generally sufficient for cleaning. While Bidriware is relatively durable, it’s best to avoid exposing it to excessive moisture or extreme temperatures. With proper care, your Bidriware vase will remain a cherished heirloom for generations to come, a constant reminder of its exquisite craftsmanship and the rich culture it represents.

Tips for Caring for Bidriware Art

When you invest in such precious and beautiful artwork, it is important to take care of it properly to ensure that it lasts long.
It should be cleaned only with water, and no soap or detergent should be used. The use of harsh chemicals can damage the surface of the artwork.
Dust should not be allowed to settle on it. Bidriware handicrafts should be dusted regularly with a soft cloth.
The shine of bidriware art can be maintained by just applying vegetable oil. Scratches and abrasions on the surface should be avoided.

The Story of Bidriware Art : Exploring its Past and Present

India is a big cauldron of heritage that is ever bubbling with the most breathtaking forms of art, and one of them is the bidriware art. This art form originated in Persia, but between the 14th and 15th centuries, the craft made its way to India. The Bahamani Sultans nurtured its growth in the country. Many bidriware craft products like hookahs, spittoons, pan holders, etc., graced the royal courts of that time.

Currently, bidriware art is practiced in Bidar, Karnataka, by the most skilled artisans to make products, including vases, ornaments, jewelry boxes, trays, statues, etc. These craftsmen have been doing this for generations and have made this art what it is today. With the advent of technology, many art forms took a hit, and so did bidriware. With people preferring machine manufactured products, the demand for handicrafts started dwindling, impacting the artisans' livelihood. However, the recent issue of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Government of India for Bidriware artisans has given them a major push.

Making bidriware crafts involves the inlay of gold and silver wires in an alloy of copper and zinc. One of its main attractions is the awe-inspiring contrast between the black and the silver. Another eye-catching feature is the fine detailing on each piece. The bidriware designs are dominated by floral patterns, leaves, and geometrical designs, which reflect Persian artistry. It takes hours of undivided focus and precision to bring bidriware handicrafts to life. This is a very long and tedious process and involves 8 stages.

Making of Bidriware Crafts

The first step is molding red clay into the shape the artisans desires and pouring the molten metal into it. An alloy of copper and zinc is used in the 16:1 ratio.

The second stage involves removing the clay and smoothing the surface of the shaped metal with fine-quality sandpaper.

In the third stage, the design is carved on the surface of the metal with a sharp object.

The fourth step involves inlay work. Sheets or wires of silver or sometimes even gold are hammered in the groves of the carved design.

In the fifth stage, the object is smoothened using a buffing machine to remove any bumps and unevenness.

At the sixth stage, the product is dipped in a mixture of the soil of Bidar fort, ammonium chloride, and water. This soil has oxidizing properties which turn zinc completely black to create a beautiful contrast with silver. Finally, at the seventh step, the paste is removed and oil is rubbed to intensify the black coating of the metal.