METAL IDOLS

The legacy of metal idol making in India dates to around the 3000 BC, to the time of the Indus Valley civilization. The iconic idol of the dancing girl of Mohenjodaro from this time indicating high level of craftsmanship, is perhaps one of the most celebrated antique metal idols of all times. It is just not during the period of the Indus Valley Civilization that bronze idol making was popular. Metal crafting was...... Read More

METAL IDOLS

The legacy of metal idol making in India dates to around the 3000 BC, to the time of the Indus Valley civilization. The iconic idol of the dancing girl of Mohenjodaro from this time indicating high level of craftsmanship, is perhaps one of the most celebrated antique metal idols of all times. It is just not during the period of the Indus Valley Civilization that bronze idol making was popular. Metal crafting was done even during the Chola rule in South India. In fact, this era was the gold period of metal idol making.

Casting bronze or brass idols using the lost wax technique was mastered during this time and was at its peak. The lost wax technique includes a series of distinct stages which begins with an artist creating an original detailed model using wax. Then the actual mould that covers the wax statue is made using white clay, pasty mixture, rice husk and sand. Once the mould is dry, a small hole is made in the mould and it is heated so that the wax melts and runs out leaving the mould hollow. Molten metal like bronze or brass is then poured through the hole and it is left to cool. The outer mould is then chipped away to uncover the statue. Delicate reconstructive work is done on it for the final finishing. All the antique metal idols made using this method are one-of-a-kind and can never be reproduced as the mould needs to be broken to take out the casting.

You can buy brass statues online at The Antique Store. Browse through our selection of brass idols online or contact us for more details.

Would you like to add a vintage touch to your outdoor garden? You can decorate your garden with antique bronze statues. These bronze idols will also look great in a large foyer, ballroom, or a lounge. Whether you are looking for antique metal idols for decoration or to add to your collection of vintage items, you can find the best selection of brass idols online at the Antique Story.

 

Due to the durable nature, metals were used to make beautiful and life-like statues during the ancient times. Archaeologists have found evidence of bronze idols even in early civilizations of Rome, Egypt, and Greece. Studies show that civilizations like Incans, Mayans, Aztecs, and Indus Valley used to make brass items that were used for everyday use. These antique bronze brass items with intricate detail and embellishments are of very high value these days. Antique idols made from any of the metals or metal alloys of iron, bronze, copper, brass, silver and other metals are collectively referred to as metal idols. 

 

 

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