Artistic Metalware

Bidriware

Bidriware is an art form that is influenced by the Persian and Arab culture and takes its name from Bidar on the Deccan Plateau, which was part of the erstwhile Hyderabad State. An alloy of zinc and other non-ferrous metals, which constitute the molten material, is poured into pre-designed moulds. Originally grey in colour, these alloys take a jetblack hue with the application of silicon clay. Delicate, fine patterns of silver are then traced intricately in a fascinating manner. These art pieces take the form of utility ware like ashtrays, cigarette cases or cufflinks or simply gorgeous curios like goblet and Omar Khayyam jars.

Miniature Bronze Castings

These Castings are created by craftsmen from Dornakambala and Perumallapalli in the Chittoor district and Dowleswaram in East Godavari district. The artisans excel in the creation of exquisite icons of Hindu deities.
Silver Filigree is a traditional craft done in Karimnagar involving delicate workmanship. Some of the beautiful items are paandaans, attardaans (perfume containers), other small containers and spoons.

Sheet Metal

This Work in brass and silver comes from Pembarti and Warangal. Depicting the Kakatiya culture of the 16th century, this work is known for its leaf and flower motifs. The artisans also excel in the temple designs if Ramappa, Lepakshi and the Fort Gate of Orugallu (now Warangal) the Kakatiya capital. The manufacture of artistic sheet metal items in traditional and innovative designs serves as both utility and household decorative items.

Pembarti Metalware

The golden era of the Kakatiya saw a spurt in various trades and crafts. As a lot of importance was attached to culture and tradition, workmanship in sheet metal was encouraged. Sheet metal was used in making statues, chariots and used to adorn temples too. The art soon went on the wane with the end of the Kakatiya dynasty but got a shot in the arm during the rule of the Nizam of Hyderabad as craftsmen switched over to making household articles and decorative pieces with sheet metal. This traditional Paan-chewing Hyderabadi still carries around an age-old "paandaan" in which betel leaves, betel nut and other chewing accessories are kept. Pembarti is just over 100 kms from Hyderabad and is accessible either by road or by Rail between the State capital and Warangal.