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Bell Metal Sculptures |
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Bell Metal Sculpture, though not as widespread as copper and brass sculpture, do play an important role in Indian art, architecture and sculpture.
Bell Metal Sculpture goes back a long time in history. It can be traced to 3000 B.C. bell metal is a unique metal. They gained special emphasis during the rule of the Guptas and the medieval Chola kings. The Cholas in South India carved life sized lost-wax Bell Metal Sculptures. This unique form of art appealed to the Chalukyas, Pandyas, Satavahanas, who patronized and continued bell metal sculpture with much enthusiasm.
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It is made of 3 or 4 parts of copper and 1 part of tin. As the name suggests, it is mainly used in designing bells. Monuments and temples across the length and breadth of India are showcases of bells made out of bell metal. However, bell metal has also been extensively used to design deities, animals, birds, musicians, figurines, trays, plates, photo frames and the like. West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Orissa and Madhya Pradesh are noted for bell metal sculpture.
Designing bell metal sculptures involves strong expertise and skill. The 'lost wax' process is resorted to in making bell metal sculptures. The process starts with making a clay model of the structure meant to be sculpted, for example, figurine of a particular deity. It is followed by the application of a mixture of beeswax and resin on the model to make its shape perfect. In fact, this forms the mould for the cast metal figure. The next step would be to apply a thin layer of clay on the model. It is left to dry for some time. After that, another paste of coarse clay and rice husk is applied on it. Holes are made on the top of the clay covering for pouring the molten metal and at the bottom for channeling out the molten wax. Metal wires are used to keep the model intact. The molten bell metal alloy while being poured from the top hole gradually melts the wax which flows out of the bottom perforation. After all the wax has melted away, the metal cast is left overnight to cool. In the morning the metal wires are cut open. The heat of the molten metal chars the clay coverings, which are chipped away. The innermost clay mold adds weight to the final figure. The final step consists of chiseling and polishing the items to perfection. Designing bell metal sculpture is a very difficult process and involves utmost patience and indomitable concentration. A little carelessness, especially during pouring the metal, can ruin the shape of a bell metal sculpture.
For more information about Bell Metal Sculpture visit the pages of Sculpture in hindusculptures.com. |
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