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 he art of inlaying silver in a dark metal base which is an
alloy of zinc and copper originated in Bidar, Hyderabad, and is called Bidri. |
 Castor Oil is mixed in clay to make a mould. A molten alloy of zinc
and copper is poured into the mould. The surface to be adorned is smoothened and the
pattern to be inlaid is chiseled out with a metal stylus. The craftsman hammers fine
silver wire into the engraved area. On buffing, the entire surface, including the silver
inlay, glows evenly. You cannot see the pattern as yet. A paste made from soil, ammonium
chloride and water is rubbed onto the heated surface and when rinsed off, it reveals the
pattern as the background darkens. Finally oil is rubbed to deepen the background and show
off the polished silver in contrast. |
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