#dhokra

Dokra (also spelt Dhokra) is non–ferrous metal casting method using the lost-wax casting technique that developed and has been in use in India for over 4,000 years. The Dhokra Damar tribe originating from Eastern India are the creators and traditional worksmiths of this technique. There are two main types of lost wax casting: solid casting and hollow casting. Solid casting is predominant in the South India and hollow casting is more common in Central and Eastern India. Solid casting does not use a clay core but instead a solid piece of wax to create the mould. hollow casting is the more traditional method and uses the clay core.

The first task in the Dokra casting process consists of developing a clay core which is roughly the shape of the final cast image. Next, the clay core is covered by a layer of wax composed of pure beeswax, resin from the tree Damara orientalis, and nut oil. The wax is then shaped and carved in all its finer details of design and decorations. It is then covered with layers of clay, which takes the negative form of the wax on the inside, thus becoming a mould for the metal that will be poured inside it. Drain ducts are left for the wax, which melts away when the clay is cooked. The wax is then replaced by the molten metal, often using brass scrap as basic raw material. The liquid metal poured in hardens between the core and the inner surface of the mould. The metal fills the mould and takes the same shape as the wax. The outer layer of clay is then chipped off and the metal icon is polished and finished as desired.

Dhokra art is one of the world’s oldest art forms. The metal-casting craft has been practiced by tribal families throughout India for 4,500 years. But following an economic reform in 2016 and the rising cost of raw materials, the future of this craft may be in jeopardy.

Editor’s Note: In this video, the translation at 00:53 is incorrect. The correct translation of Rajendra’s quote is “During Covid, our artisans did not have another source of income to fall back on.” Insider regrets the error.

For more information on Rajendra's work, email him at [email protected]

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This is a dokra crafted maa Durga brass figurine. Dokra or Dhokra is an ancient Indian brass art and tribal craft which has been living through over 4000 years. This art form started in the period of one of the oldest societies, Mohenjo- Daro. The simplicity of this primitive Indian handicraft has always attracted people. Dokra is principally a non-ferrous ornon-iron grounded casting of essence using lost- wax casting. Dokra is a very rarely found and high demand craft nowadays. To know the whole story, please visit our website www.mollisarts.com

Buy Now on etsy @mollisarts

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Indigenous craft Handicraft in India

Fish container 1 click to see image in Philadelphia museum Indigenous community living in forest & remote areas, often i have heard the word hinter land? urban people are totally unaware of, with increasing level of awareness many people living metropolitan cities became aware of crafts, not craft as such but through showing off as objects of Home Decor, as happened in Delhi Haat. Rich grabbed…

How fond are you of decorating your home or your workplace?

​If you’re someone who loves adding that personal touch to spaces, chances are that you put a lot of effort into choosing perfect handcrafted decor items to give an aesthetic look to your home. Well, we have a question here. Is buying expensive decor items always worth it? Spending money often may not be palatable to all.

​Well, here’s a refreshing alternative. Ever thought about how your everyday items can double up as creative decor pieces?

​You’ll be surprised to know that some of the most ordinary things that we overlook can prove to be far more authentic and aesthetic than the expensive handcrafted decor pieces you buy.

​Today, in this blog, we are going to discuss 5 everyday items that can be creatively transformed into amazing home decor!

​What You Read, Reads Beauty

​Are you one of those who have books from different genres?

​Plus,if you are a clumsy one, chances are there that they might be scattered all over the place? If yes, then it’s time to turn that “clutter” into a charming decor idea!

​Books can instantly add warmth and character to a room, and for that, all you need is a little imagination. From coffee tables to open wooden cabinets, there are innumerable and creative ways to style them. Try stacking your books by colour for a gradient effect, or organize them by thickness to add visual balance. A few creative arrangements can turn your reading corner into the most eye-catching spot in your home!

​Travelling the World; Even When at Home

​Think maps belong only in your school textbooks? Think again! Maps can make  fantastic decor pieces that bring a touch of adventure to your personal space.

​Imagine a giant world map mural in your living room or your child’s bedroom, it feels like travelling the world without stepping out!

You can even use old maps to personalize tabletops, or even cover your study or office desk with them and place a glass sheet on top. Want to take it a step further? Try decorating the walls with framed vintage maps to give your walls an even more interesting twist.

​Once Used, But Can Be Used More

​What do you do with your cold drink cans once they’re empty? Throw them away, right? But what if you could utilize them in a better way?

​Remember those school art classes where we made pen holders out of tin cans? That same idea still works like magic. You can paint and decorate them with your imagination and use them as pen holders at home or in the office. And if you’ve got a budding artist in the family, these cans make perfect brush holders too!

​​Rubber Bands, Just Think of It!

​Do you think rubber bands are only meant for tying your hair or sealing polybags? Well, you might not have explored some of the creative decor possibilities.

​Got a plain flower vase at home? Try wrapping a bunch of colourful rubber bands around it and see the instant transformation. It’ll add a playful pop of texture and colour, something that’s sure to catch the eye of anyone that loves the work of art​

You can even experiment with candle holders the same way, just a few rubber bands can give them a unique, contemporary twist.

​Well wait, here’s another very clever way to use rubber bands. You must be tired  of those messy cable cords hanging behind your TV or computer? Annoying, right? Rubber bands are here to the rescue! Simply use them to bundle cords neatly, and even better, pick bright colours to add a fun touch to your setup. It’s practical and aesthetic!

​Unpacking New Ideas With Old Suitcases

​Think suitcases are only meant for packing clothes? Think again! With a little imagination, they can become one of the most charming decor pieces in your home.

​Start with stacking a few old suitcases on top of each other to create a quirky side table. Add a wooden or glass top and maybe cover it with a light fabric, and there you have it, a vintage yet stylish accent piece!

​To elevate the look further, place a table lamp or a small indoor plant on top. Not only does it add a cozy, old-world charm to your space, but it also narrates a story filled with creativity and happiness.

​Conclusion: