Metal Mastery: History of Metalware, Characteristics & Types

The metal craftsmen of India have been creating amazing metal art and masterpieces for centuries now. Metal art or craft refers to works of art or statues which are made of many metals, including silver, bronze, gold, iron, copper, and brass. Over the years, metal has been used to create different kinds of things, including statues, door hardware, ornaments, sculptures, art, and more. 

Among all the areas where metal is largely used, metal art and handicrafts have become widely popularised over the years. There is a lot of demand for metal arts and its related artistry work, and people are often keen to know more about it. If you are interested to know more about this art, such as its history, different types and characteristics, keep on reading this blog. Along with all the information on metalware, we will also be introducing you with some of the amazing metal pieces at iTokri. 

Metal Art

History of Metal Art

The metal handicrafts and art are not only beautiful, but they also have a fascinating history of development through the years. The evidence of  ancient metalworking  goes back to 7000 B.C. At that time, ancient Egyptians used to produce beautiful and decorative metal pieces, which are now seen as catacombs and pyramids. Then, if we move through the times of Ancient Rome and Greece, which was from 12 B.C. up to the start of the Middle Ages, there were bronze statues found, along with other everyday items like utensils which were majorly made from iron alloys and copper.

Then during the mediaeval period, around 500-1500 C.E. Metal art made its way in the form of items and  ancient Indian sculptures of gods,  which were majorly created for religious reasons. After this, from the 14th to 17th century, people started to develop versions of large ancient metal statues  as decorative items. As we move into the 17th century, there were developments of vast metal items, such as from decorative items to metal fixtures like tools, door hardware, gates and more. From the 18th century onwards, a passion developed for creating decorative ornaments like shelf clocks, which were largely spread through America and England, and also imported from France.

And so today, metal handicrafts continue to be popular and are often used by people to add style and elegance to commercial spaces and their homes. From metal candle stands, and wall hangings to other objects of metal, there are a lot of metal things available in a variety of designs and styles, which range from contemporary and modern to unique and traditional. 

Picture Credit:- Pinterest/françois RAYNAUD
Picture Credit:- Pinterest/françois RAYNAUD

Process of Metal Art

Depending on the metal artwork you wish to make, you will go through the following steps and will need the following materials-

  1. Metals or Metal sheets

If you choose to work with metal fabrication, then this will be the starting point. You can either use the scrap metal or buy the premade ones.

  1. Soldering or Welding equipment

This is what you need to do to add beads or any other embellishment. If you are working with a small amount of metal, then Iron soldering will work for you. But if it’s large, then you will need to get a piece of welding equipment.

  1. Drilling and its equipment

This is required to drill holes into your pieces and can be done with drilling tools.

  1. Grinding, Polishing and Sanding Equipment

These are the art supplies and tools that provide shine to your metal art.

 

Characteristics of Metal Art

Metal art or crafts are best known for their unique and amazing characteristics which make them stand out from other types of handicrafts. So some of the best characteristics of metal art are as follows-

  1. Highly Versatile

Metal is one of those materials that can be easily molded and shaped into a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and designs. This characteristic makes metal a very versatile material for creating metal arts and crafts. 

  1. Very Durable

Metal is also known to be one of the most durable materials that is capable of resisting tear and is so strong, which makes  metal art  pieces a long-term investment and they can be added to a space for a long period.

  1. Provides Reflection

Metal has the quality of providing natural reflection which can add a touch of sparkle and shine to any room. This feature makes the metal arts or handicrafts a very popular choice for adding brightness to a space.

  1. Longevity

Metal also has a characteristic of longevity as it does deteriorate, fade or rust over time, which makes  the metal art  pieces worth an investment for adding style and beauty.

 

 

Types of Metal Craft

Metal arts and crafts come in many types, each with its different design and style. So some of the widely used and most popular types of metal handicrafts are as follows-

  1. Ornaments

Metal is largely used to create ornaments, like metal lanterns, candle holders and decorations for Christmas trees, which are generally used to add a touch of festive vibe and so are preferred by those who love to decorate their space during the seasons of holidays or festivals. Check out the Antique Silver finish Oxidised Brass Base Stone Work Necklace, Earrings, and Jhumka at iTokri.

  1. Sculptures

Another type of   metal arts and crafts   is metal sculptures, either representational or abstract, which are very highly prized for their craftsmanship and beauty. These are generally found in private collections or museums around the world and are created by metalworkers who are highly skilled in welding, casting and forging.

  1. Items of decoration

Metal handicrafts such as photo frames, wall hangings and metal sculptures are often used to add a sense of beauty and elegance to a space. These items are created using techniques like engraving, casting and hammering to create detailed designs.

Wall Hanging

Conclusion

The  history of metal  art and crafts dates back centuries now and is widely used in the modern world in many different ways, from sculptures, ornaments, statues, and fixtures to elegant metal art pieces. Metal art is one of the most popular choices among other Indian Craft options, and is often chosen by people because of its amazing charities, which include elegance, longevity, durability and versatility. So whether you are looking to decorate your office, home or any other space, then metal crafts and arts are an amazing investment in style, elegance and history. To check out the best collection of , you can refer to iTokri’s page.

 

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