Dhokra - Marvelous Metal Casting
Dhokra (also spelt Dokra) is non–ferrous metal casting using the lost-wax casting technique. This sort of metal casting has been used in India for over 4,000 years and is still used. One of the earliest known lost wax artefacts is the dancing girl of Mohenjo-daro.
Dhokra art is hugely inspired from our day to day activities and society around us. From a woman carrying her child to musicians playing instruments and people carrying paalki are some of the most common Dhokra figures. The product of dhokra artisans are in great demand in domestic and foreign markets because of primitive simplicity, enchanting folk motifs and forceful form. Dhokra horses, elephants, peacocks, owls, religious images, measuring bowls, and lamp caskets etc., are highly appreciated.
The lost wax technique for casting of copper based alloys has also been found in China, Egypt, Malaysia, Nigeria, Central America, and other places.
Brass craft has made a significant change within the artwork created by the artisans in India. Many handicrafts have been made on and with brass such as bowls, lamps, containers, ashtrays, etc. West Bengal in particular has been using the ancient metal casting technique of Dhokra to facilitate the use of brass.
Winning hearts in both domestic and foreign markets, Dhokra artisans create a string of folk motifs like horses, elephants, peacocks, owls, etc. on an everyday basis.