Dokhra is unique to West Bengal, Orissa, Chattisgarhand Andhra Pradesh. The metal is from scrap brass and other metals. The objects are cast using the lost wax process. A variety of shapes from flat latticed ones to larger more three dimensional forms.
Overview of Techniques involved
1. Sourcing and Transporting raw materials and creation of wax model
- Wax, Clay
- Tools and instruments
2. Forming the earthen mould
- The base form is made using mud and cow dung mixture
3. Coiling
- Over this, the wax threads are coiled in the desired shape of the final piece
4. Coating with mud
- A thin coat of very fine mud covers the wax
5. Casting & firing
- A final coat of mud mixed with cow dung & hay is applied. Holes are made on this coat for letting melted metal in and liquid wax out.
- This is dried in shade for a couple of days and then baked in a furnace.
- Baked mud is broken to reveal threads of brass composed in the form of beautiful figures.
6. Finishing
- Cleaning and polishing may be done with a brush, to achieve a shiny metallic surface.