Metal artifacts and figures of Chattisgarh The metal artifacts and figures of Chattisgarh are known for their dark and elegant rawness displaying exceptional creative imagination and craftsmanship. The work of the Nagarnar, Jondrapadar & Kondagaon villages of Chattisgarh demonstrates a timelessness that is enticing. The tribes draw the iron either from the ore-rich mines in the Chirandongri region or by careful recycling of scrap iron.
PROCEDUREThe blacksmith heats the metal in a furnace to make it flexible so that it is easier to mold and work on. He takes outmost care while using his tools to avoid any creation of joints. The final varnish is to give that attractive finish.
USESApart from the usual & expected uses of wrought iron crafts and furniture, certain products hold some ritualistic significance.
Wrought iron is used in articles like lamps, candle stands, certain musical instruments, delicate animal shapes, figurines and deities.
Some of the commonly made musical instruments by the tribes with wrought iron are :
- Muhri (trumpet),
- Dhapra (daphli),
- Tudbudi(nagada) and
- the three string Sitara,
Other products include: Khutdiya with peacocks, monkeys, lions, deers that come of use at weddings and the Jhaari of the Bhudi goddess. The ‘laman diya’ is one of the most popular wrought iron items.