Craft Name: Bronze status of Tanjore
Region: Tamil Nadu
CRAFT
HISTORY
Thanjavur bronze casting is one of India’s oldest metal crafts, dating back to the Chola period (9th–13th century). The Cholas perfected the lost-wax casting technique (Cire Perdue) to create iconic bronzes of Nataraja, Parvati, Vishnu, and various temple deities. These bronzes were revered for their perfect proportions, fluidity, and spiritual symbolism. Traditionally cast by Sthapathis, who follow ancient Shilpa Shastra guidelines, the craft continued through temple patronage and royal workshops.
WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE:
- Created using lost-wax casting
- Strict sacred proportions from Shilpa Shastra
- Smooth, glowing bronze finish
- Deep spiritual and ritual significance
Received a
GI tag in 2023
COLOURS
- Traditional palettes include rich jewel tones, maroon, emerald, navy, royal blue, paired with gold or silver zari.
- How much time does it take to make a product, and how many artisans are involved in making this craft? A Zardozi piece takes 3–20 days, involving 2–5 skilled karigars
MOTIFS
- Hindu deities
- Iconographic elements
- Temple-inspired features
- Mythological scenes
- Floral & geometric borders
How much time does it take to make a product, and how many artisans are involved in the process?
A Thanjavur bronze idol takes 7–30 days, crafted by 2–4 Sthapathi artisans
RAW MATERIAL
- Panchaloha alloy (traditional five-metal mix)
- Beeswax and resin (for creating the detailed wax model)
- Clay mixture from the Kaveri river basin (for the outer mold)
- Rice husk ash (strengthens the clay mold)
- Hand tools such as chisels, files, metal scrapers
- Natural polishing materials (fine sand, oil, cloth)
CRAFT MAKING PROCESS
HOW TO IDENTIFY GENUINE AND AUTHENTIC CRAFT
- Seamless form with no casting joints
- Sacred iconographic proportions
- Warm bronze glow, not too shiny
- Hand-carved detailing, not molded