Bastar (Chhattisgarh, Central India)
Brass, Dokra work
A finely cast oil lamp in the form of a peacock, its hollow body serving as a reservoir for oil. The wick protrudes through the opening at the top of the removable finial mounted on the bird’s back. The surface is intricately worked with fine cross-hatching and coiled bands characteristic of Bastar metal casting.
Dhokra is non–ferrous metal casting using the lost-wax casting technique. This sort of metal casting has been used in India for over 4,000 years and is still used. One of the earliest known lost wax artefacts is the dancing girl of Mohenjo-Daro. The product of dhokra artisans is in great demand in domestic and foreign markets because of primitive simplicity, enchanting folk motifs and forceful form. Dhokra horses, elephants, peacocks, owls, religious images, measuring bowls, and lamp caskets, etc., are highly appreciated.
Size (cms): 17(H) x 19(W) x 9(D)
Size (inches): 6.5(H) x 7.5(W) x 3.5(D)
