Dhokra Metal Art
Dhokra Damar tribes are a community of metal smiths from the states of Orissa and West Bengal in India. These tribes are known for non-ferrous metal casting. They work with copper and its alloys, brass and bronze. The tribes are known for lost wax metal casting. In lost wax method, a clay core is filled with bee resin, beeswax and nut oil. The wax is then carved by the artisan to a desired shape. The wax is then covered with clay and holes are made to create ducts. When molten metal is poured into the clay, the wax melts and leaves through the ducts. The metal inside hardens and takes the shape of the carved wax. The final metal artifact is sanded and polished before use. Dhokra tribe are known for making animal and human brass sculptures.