Keeping Bidri alive

With an idea to draft his first-hand experience with Bidri ware, art collector Jagdish Mittal presented his book, ‘Bidri and Damascene Work in the Jagdish and Kamla Mittal Museum of Indian Art’ to art connoisseurs in the city on June 15. This book is based on Mittal’s experience in collecting Bidri ware and study of about one thousand examples of exquisite bidris since 1951. “ Bidri ware has an aesthetic quality art and craft, This form of art started in early 17th century in Bidar,” revealed Mittal, who has been collecting Indian arts and crafts for 60 years now. When asked what is so unique about Bidri craft, pat came his reply, “Bidri ware is made using a different alloy altogether. It consists of 90 per cent zinc along with little traces of copper and tin. And, what I like the best about this is the blackening effect that naturally comes in Bidri ware. A particular chemical in the clay of Bidar changes the colour of zinc to black that stays permament. That is the most charming aspect of Bidri ware.” According to Mittal, Bidri ware has not received the pedestal is should be placed at. He believes that the Bidri craftsmen their way to add a charm to their arte facts.Mittal believes in portraying his entire collection through his books. “I want to make sure that the future generation stays in touch with the Indian art through these books,” confessed Mittal at the launch, whose next book will feature Tirupathi paintings. He further added, “The idea is to educate the art lovers. My books are a way to reach out to people and educate people who are interested in learning about Indian art. I also want to inspire the young generation, who are slowly losing touch with our art and culture.”