•

6" Beautiful Elephants - (Set Of 2) | Bidri Artwork | Gunmetal With Real Silver

Email

Whatsapp

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

Copy link

FREE Delivery

$300

$400

(25% off)

Quantity

Usually ships in 6 days

Notify me when this item is available

Item Code:	DDE622
Specifications:	Gunmetal With Real Silver
Height:	5.6 inch
Width:	6 inch
Depth:	2.5 inch
Weight:	1.65 kg

Handmade

Free delivery

Fully insured

100% Made in India

Fair trade

Introducing Exquisite Bidriware Elephant Figurines

Elevate your home decor with this captivating set of two 6-inch Bidriware elephant figurines. These aren't just decorative pieces; they are exquisite works of art, showcasing the rich heritage and intricate craftsmanship of Bidriware, a centuries-old metal inlay technique from India. Each elephant is meticulously crafted from gunmetal, adorned with delicate silver inlay work that creates stunning geometric and floral patterns. The deep black of the gunmetal provides a striking contrast to the shimmering silver accents, resulting in a captivating visual experience. These majestic creatures, positioned as if in conversation, add a touch of sophisticated elegance and cultural richness to any space. Perfect for the discerning collector or anyone seeking to add a touch of authentic Indian artistry to their home.

The Art of Bidriware

Bidriware, originating from Bidar, India, is a unique metalcraft characterized by its distinctive inlays. Skilled artisans meticulously craft these pieces, using a base metal of gunmetal or zinc alloy, which is then intricately inlaid with silver. The intricate patterns are painstakingly etched and filled with silver, showcasing the remarkable talent and precision of the craftspeople. The final piece undergoes a process of polishing and darkening, creating a deep contrast between the black gunmetal and the gleaming silver. Our elephant figurines are a testament to this rich artistic heritage, capturing the beauty and elegance of Bidriware in miniature form.

Majestic Elephants, Symbolic Significance

Elephants hold immense cultural and symbolic significance across various cultures, often representing wisdom, strength, good fortune, and prosperity. In many Asian traditions, elephants symbolize power, dignity, and longevity. These graceful Bidriware elephants bring this symbolic power into your home, adding a layer of auspiciousness and positive energy to your living space. Their playful positioning suggests a sense of companionship and harmony, creating a welcoming ambiance for your guests and family.

Versatile Placement Options

These charming elephant figurines are incredibly versatile in their placement. They make a striking centerpiece on a mantelpiece, coffee table, or bookshelf. Place them on your nightstand as a unique decorative element, or use them to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your office or study. Their compact size (5.6 inches high, 6 inches wide, and 2.5 inches long) makes them suitable for display in a variety of settings, adding an element of sophistication and intrigue wherever they are placed. They are also a thoughtful and unique gift for friends, family, or colleagues who appreciate handcrafted art and cultural treasures.

More Than Just Decoration: A Piece of History

These Bidriware elephant figurines are more than just decorative objects; they are a piece of living history. Owning these figurines is like owning a small piece of India's rich cultural heritage. By supporting this artisan craft, you not only enhance your home's beauty but also contribute to the preservation of a time-honored tradition and the livelihood of skilled artisans. They are a timeless investment, adding value to your personal collection and becoming cherished heirlooms for generations to come.

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.