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Story of Dhamrai Metal Crafts:
Dhamrai Metal Crafts
For generations,
Bangladeshi craftsmen have been making beautiful metal objects using a
variety of different techniques. These metal objects, ranging from
everyday use items like culinary to religious idols of both Buddhism and
Hinduism, are not only unique artworks, but also represents the
tradition of centuries of craftsmanship practised in certain part of the
country among certain communities.
 The main centre for metal casting in Bangladesh is in
a village known as Dhamrai. For many generations, this
predominantly Hindu village has produced “handmade” metal-ware for
markets throughout Bangladesh. This area has a rich history that can be
traced back to the Pala Dynasty (800-1100 AD), during which time both
early Buddhist and Hindu settlements once flourished. This aspect of
history is explicitly reflected in each of the metal crafts produced in
Dhamrai.
All the metal works that we present to you through
this exhibition are produced by the
Banik family. The Baniks, who have been living in Dhamrai for several
centuries, are involved in metal crafts for 200 years. The also own the
largest workshop, Dhamrai Metal Craft.
While a variety of different metal combinations can
be used, as a general rule, two basic alloys are most often found –
brass or bronze/ bell metal. Five different casting techniques are used,
i.e. the lost wax method, the clay casting method, the sand casting
method, the spoon casting method and the plate casting method.
The advent of modern technology and machine-made
culinary and other day-to-day use objects has had its significant
adverse effect on the metal crafting practices in Dhamrai. But Mr.
Sukanta Banik, the youngest son of the Banik family, had something
different in his mind, and decided to keep the legacy of Bangladesh’s
unique metal casting industry. Thanks to his commitment and dedication,
this metal casting trade has, at least partially, revived. We hope that
the future generations in Bangladesh will come to appreciate the time
and effort that goes into making these unique objects.
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