038. Bell Metal Ware of Datia and Tikamgarh

Bell Metal Ware of Datia and Tikamgarh are ancient tradition of casting metal work in the Bundelkhand Region of Madhya Pradesh. Bell metal is a term used for different types of metal put together mainly zinc, copper, aluminum, brass, and silver for casting. The figures appear plain, solid with embellishment at various places for ornaments, clothing, decorations on seating etc.

Datia is a city situated around 78 kms from Gwalior. The main product of Datia casting was anklets worn by women over years. Originally these were casted in silver and later changed to Brass due to economy. The main feature of Datia is the Jali work done on the walls of the product. The products have since diversified into various products like lampshades, mirror frames, ashtrays, temples, side stools and utility boxes. 

Tikamgarh is a town situated around 85 kms from Chanderi and bell metal casting has been practiced for over three centuries. Bell metal products of Tikamgarh are plain and solid in appearance with decorations of fine work at certain places, to enhance them. The products have a rustic appeal. The craftsmanship initially catered to kings and soldiers for war weapons. Today, all kind of decorative items are crafted here for every need and desire.

The process of metal casting used is lost wax casting. The metal pieces are sculpted in the usual way and moulds are created to produce the objects. A mixture of industrial wax, groundnut oil and a binding resin is heated and used as the modeling material. In case of larger articles, a clay base is made, over which this wax mixture is coated and given the final shape. 

Once the wax hardens, it is covered in layers of different soil pastes and this mud covered wax object is baked in a furnace. After the baked piece is cooled, it is broken and given acid treatment for an antique finish. With this, we get to witness the finished art piece which replicates the fine craftsmanship of an artist. 

The feature of ornamentation is also achieved by applying wax on earlier caved out designs on soft stone (Gora pather) called ukhanas. This engraved design on wax is then placed on the wax model as required. The use of ukhanas is a special feature of this region.

GI Tag Registration Date         : 10 July 2008

GI Tag Number                         : 102

Certificate Number                  : 81

Geographical Area                  : Madhya Pradesh

Special Cover Release Date   : 28 July 2021

Cancellation                             : Bhopal 462 001

Type                                          : GI Tag Special Cover

Cover Identification Number  : MP/07/2021

Enlarged View of Illustration

Enlarged View of Cancellation