Dhokra Art

Dhokra is a timeless craft that combines masterful metalwork with a primitive expression, creating unique and enhancing pieces that reflect the skill of tribal artisans. Dhokra art is a lost-wax casting technique that is approximately 4000 years old. Dhokra art is in high demand due to its primitive simplicity and enchanting folk motifs, which are sought after in both domestic and international markets. The most appreciated Dhokra art products include horses, peacocks, religious images, owls, elephants, lamp caskets and measuring bowls. Dhokra is an alloy composed of Brass, nickel and zinc, used to create motifs inspired by folk culture. Dhokra art is a metal craft art practised by Ojha metal smiths in various states, including Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Telangana, and West Bengal.

Process of Dhokra Art

Dhokra art was invented by the Dhokra Damar tribes, who were formerly metal smiths of West Bengal. Each Dhokra piece is unique and aesthetically pleasing, requiring months to prepare utilising the ancient lost-waxing technique. The process begins with the artist collecting clay, which is later combined with rice paddy husk (Khuda) to prepare the dough. Khuda serves as a binding agent that forms the final cast design, which is later dried in the sun.

In further stages, a combination of beeswax, nut oil, and damar (resin) is prepared, which is then placed into the mould. Later, this wax mixture is squeezed out of the mold in shape of long spirals. The spirals are wrapped around Dhokra figures to give them a unique appearance. The artists use the spirals to add fine details and shape the product, where embellishments and patterns are engraved to give it a unique look. After that, the wax product exterior is coated with Khuda and Red Clay.

Later, this brass fragment is heated in the furnace, where wax and metal are melted. Dhokra art is said to be lost wax technique because the wax oozes out of the frame through various outlets. It is dried in the sun again, so the metal adopts shape of the frame. After the frame is cracked, the artist gives the finishing touches to the final piece.

Design elements and symbolism

Each Dhokra piece is unique, as clay moulds are broken after use. All Dhokra's piece is unique as it is handcrafted by artists, giving it a personal touch. Dhokra art figurines are stylised and elongated, featuring braided textures, coiled designs, and linear detailing. Common themes for Dhokra products include tribal deities, mythological figures, musicians, dancers, and village scenes. It also features animal figurines of elephants, peacocks, bulls, and horses. These motifs are not just decorations but also signify their values, beliefs and surroundings. Some of these pieces have spiritual significance, often found in tribal rituals and household shrines.

Why should we keep Dhokra products at home?

Due to commercialisation, there is a rise in mass-produced products which are made by machines. Dhokra metal craft gives a break from mass produced product as they are unique, authentic and symbolic.

• Uniqueness - Each Dhokra piece is made using a lost-wax technique, where the clay mould is broken, giving it a unique shape. Dhokra art products have intricate designs and rustic charm. So, it can look good not just in heritage homes but also in bohemian lofts or even modern apartments.
• Sustainability – Dhokra art has roots in nature, as it utilises organic materials such as Clay, Brass, and Wax. These materials are eco-friendly, and the preparation process generates minimal waste. These products are created using traditional tools, so it doesn’t require the use of harsh chemicals and electricity.
• Cultural heritage - Dhokra is a 4,000-year-old art form with roots in the Indus Valley civilisation. Each piece presents a story of mythological richness and tribal history, so it is a living cultural legacy as it is passed down through generations of artists.
• Tribal community empowerment – Dhokra art pieces are prepared by rural artisans whose livelihoods depend on these products. These artists are from marginal communities in Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh. Purchasing these Dhokra handicrafts helps sustain traditional art and preserve ancient knowledge.

Global appeal of Dhokra art

Dhokra craft products are made from sustainable materials, which is why it has appeal in the international market. Collectors, Designers, and Interior decorators are incorporating Dhokra art into their spaces due to its uniqueness and elegance. Dhokra art has timeless forms that look good in both traditional Indian interiors and minimalist foreign interiors. Dhokra art has found its place in craft exhibitions, galleries, and even curated art stores for people who value art and craftsmanship. 

Dhokra products at Natriel

Natriel offers diverse range of Dokra products including metal décor and functional utility items. Natriel collection features handcrafted piece that are perfect for home décor, office accessories and gift options. Some of these products are - Dhokra Flower Vase, Dhokra Elephant, Dhokra Duck Figurine, Dhokra Art Musician Trio, Dhokra Art Fish Pen Holder, Dhokra Art Nandi Cow Figurine, Dhokra Art Candle Holder and Dhokra Art Tribal Life. Some of these figurines would give an ethnic touch to your décor. The pen holder and candle holder serve a functional purpose at home. While Natriel unique animal figurines can be used as gifts on housewarmings and birthdays for art lovers.

Dhokra art serves as a bridge between the traditional and contemporary worlds. Each piece is developed uniquely by skilled artisans who have learned the craft from their previous generations. Dhokra art is a complex process but produces timeless pieces that elevate the look of your home. Dhokra is a legacy as it has roots in the Indus Valley civilisation, the Dancing Girl found in an excavation, is the earliest known example of the lost wax technique. Natriel has exquisite collection of Dhokra Art which can elevate your home décor. Explore Natriel collection of Dokra artifacts for home décor and gifting options.