SILVER FILIGREE WORK

7th March, 2024 Culture

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Context

Rupa Tarakasi, also known as silver filigree work, is a renowned craft originating from Cuttack, Odisha. Recently, it has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, highlighting its unique characteristics and qualities.

Details

Rupa Tarakasi Craft

Meaning: In Odia, "tara" means wire and "kasi" means to design, encapsulating the essence of silver filigree work.
Craftsmanship: Silver bricks are transformed into thin wires or foils, meticulously crafted into intricate designs, jewelry, showpieces, and decorative artifacts.
Product Categories: Jewelry, decorative artifacts, accessories, home décor, and religious/cultural pieces are popular in Cuttack's silver filigree market.

Origin and History:

Early Existence: Silver filigree work dates back to the 12th century in Cuttack, with notable patronage under the Mughals.
Influence: The craft bears resemblance to filigree work from regions such as Arabia, Malta, Genoa, and ancient Greece, suggesting cultural exchanges over centuries.
Craftsmanship: Traditionally, the craft is executed by skilled artisans, often young boys, known for their dexterity and precision.
Unique Characteristics: Cuttack's filigree work distinguishes itself from indigenous silver jewelry, showcasing delicate designs and superior craftsmanship.

Evolution and Growth:

Core Process: While the craft's core process has remained consistent over centuries, advancements in design and product categories have led to its evolution.
Materials: Silver filigree artisans utilize various metals, including silver alloys, copper, zinc, cadmium, and tin, to enhance the craft's aesthetics and durability.

Other GI Tags from Odisha