Description

About Dhokra Craft

Dhokra Craft is a type of metal craft that is made by the tribal artisans of India using a technique called Dhokra or Dokra. Dhokra is an ancient method of making metal sculptures by using wax casting( lost wax method ). The process involves creating a clay mould around a wax model, which is then heated to melt the wax and leave a hollow space. Molten metal, usually brass or bronze, is then poured into the mould and allowed to cool. The clay mould is then broken and the metal sculpture is revealed. Dhokra craft is known for its intricate details and unique designs.

How Old the craft is?

Dhokra is a form of metal art that has a long and rich history in India. It is one of the oldest techniques of metal casting, dating back to over 4,000 years ago during Harappan civilization (Harappa – Mohenjo-Daro). Dhokra craft is made by using the lost-wax casting method, which involves creating a mould of clay and wax, melting the wax, and pouring molten metal into the hollow space. Dhokra craft is known for its intricate and unique designs, often depicting tribal life, animals, gods, and goddesses. Dhokra craft is not limited to one region or tribe in India. It is also practised by other tribal communities in Central and Eastern India, such as the Gonds, the Bhils, the Baigas, the Murias, and the Ghadwas. Each community has its own style and variation of Dhokra craft, influenced by their local culture and environment. Dhokra craft can be found in various forms, such as wall hangings, figurines, jewellery, utensils, lamps, and more.

About this craft

Dhokra Lakshmi is a traditional Indian handicraft that beautifully captures the essence of Hindu mythology and artistry. This exquisite piece of art features the goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune, seated atop an owl. In this artistic representation, the goddess Laxmi is depicted in a seated posture, signifying her divine grace and abundance.

The owl, on which Laxmi is seated, holds special significance in Hindu mythology. In Hinduism, the owl is considered the vehicle or vahana of the goddess Laxmi. Owls are associated with wisdom, foresight, and the ability to see in the dark, attributes that are closely related to the goddess’s power to bring wealth and prosperity to her devotees. The owl, in this context, symbolizes not only Laxmi’s connection to wisdom but also her watchful presence, ensuring that her devotees are well taken care of.