Copper Enamel Arts and Crafts - Alibaug, Maharashtra
Copper enamelling is a centuries-old craft. It has journeyed many generations. The traditional old age art has roots in Varanasi first planted by Persian enamellists as early as the 17th century. It is a process in which powdered glass is fused to a metal surface by using high heat. Usually, metals like gold, silver and copper are used for enamelling. The metal articles or jewellery are embellished with colourful enamelling. The powdered glass can be applied either wet or dry to a surface. The colourful glass powder is laid onto the copper surface according to the pattern or design and it is put on a high heat to melt the powdered glass. This process results in a coat which is formed on the copper surface. The end result not only lends its vibrant colours to the copper surface but also prevents it from oxidizing. This makes articles more attractive and useful too.
It is the hard work of artisans that makes the art come up to the mark. There is a cluster called ‘Copper Enamel Arts and Crafts’ where a few artisans are working. The cluster is highly professional in manufacturing beautiful copper enamel artefacts. It is based in a small village known as Bhaimala near Alibag, Raigad district of Maharashtra. Mr Sanjay Patil is the owner of this unit. He, his son Vikrant and his daughter Rutuja are also helping him in this art. Around ten artisans are working in shifts here.
The ‘Copper Enamel Arts and Crafts’ cluster not only produces artifacts but also conducts training sessions and workshops for art lovers. To create awareness about the copper enamel art they promote themselves through various social media platforms. Mr Sanjay has 40 years of experience in copper enamelling art and is recognised by the Government of India. The 12ft by 11ft installation of the Indian Map was brought to life through the copper enamel art which is displayed in the Sardar Vallabhai Patel Museum inside the Statue of Unity Memorial Entrance, Gujarat.
