Figure carrying a bundle of woods: Bastar Iron Craft by Sameep Vishwakarma

Bastar Iron Craft

Bastar Iron Craft is a traditional art form from the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, India, renowned for its distinctive iron sculptures and artifacts. This craft involves the creation of intricate and robust iron artworks using traditional methods passed down through generations. The craft is characterized by its rustic charm and the unique ability of the artisans to transform raw iron into exquisite, detailed pieces. Bastar Iron Craft reflects the rich cultural heritage and artistic ingenuity of the tribal communities of Bastar, making it a cherished part of India's artisanal legacy. History  The origins of Bastar Iron Craft are deeply rooted in the iron-rich Bastar region, where the Gond and Maria tribes initially focused on extracting iron ore and creating practical tools for agriculture, hunting, and other daily needs. Over time, these artisans began to infuse their work with religious and ceremonial significance, particularly influenced by the worship of 'Budha Dev,' a deity believed to reside in the sacred Saja tree. As the tribes recognized the strength and symbolic value of iron, they incorporated it into their religious practices and artifacts, including iron tridents, spears, and ceremonial items. This evolution of the craft reflects the artisans’ growing experimentation and creativity, leading to a broader range of artistic forms and sizes. Bastar Iron Craft encompasses themes that reflect the cultural and spiritual life of the tribal communities. Common motifs include religious symbols, figures of deities such as Budha Dev, and elements of nature like animals and plants. The art often features ceremonial items like wrought iron lamps (diyas) adorned with animal motifs and figurines of deities. The representation of various postures and sizes of animals and deities demonstrates the craft’s evolution and the artisans’ exploration of new themes and forms. Materials and Methods Bastar Iron Craft predominantly uses recycled iron scrap sourced from household or market discards. The crafting process begins with heating the scrap iron in a traditional furnace (Dhukna Sar). Artisans use locally made tools, including Muthli (hammers), Chimtas (forceps), Sandasis (tongs), and Chenni (chisels), to shape the hot iron by beating it at specific spots to achieve the desired form. Unnecessary portions are cut away, and sharp edges are filed down. Once the shaping is complete, a varnish coat is applied to enhance the luster of the finished piece. Both hollow and solid figures are crafted, with hollow figures being made from folded iron sheets and solid figures being detailed with small chisels after shaping the main parts. Significance Bastar Iron Craft holds significant cultural and historical value for the tribal communities of Chhattisgarh. It is a representation of the region’s artistic heritage and the skillful craftsmanship of its artisans. The craft plays an important role in preserving tribal traditions and providing economic opportunities for local communities. Each piece of Bastar Iron Craft carries with it the stories, beliefs, and artistry of the tribal people, making it a vital link to their past and a celebration of their cultural identity. In recent years, the craft has gained wider recognition, contributing to the appreciation and preservation of traditional Indian artisanal practices. Efforts to promote Bastar Iron Craft through exhibitions, fairs, and collaborations with contemporary designers help sustain the craft and ensure its continued relevance in the modern world. FAQs Do you offer international shipping? Yes, we offer international shipping. Shipping costs and delivery times will vary depending on the destination. Please check our shipping policy for more details. What sizes of Bastar Iron Craft items are available? Bastar Iron Craft items are available in various sizes, from small decorative pieces to large sculptures. You can choose from our range or request custom sizes to fit your space.