Are these Bidri?

[harrywagner]

Originally Posted by Battara

Thank you folks for correcting me.

It would seem that there are perhaps two different periods for the Indian modern work.......

And I agree......let's keep this civil - thank you.

Thank you. Please feel free to help us by saying what dates you think these were made. I won't be offended. This was never about how old these were to begin with. It was about their decoration technique. Somehow we have gotten side-tracked. However, now that we are here, I will say I believe these are not recent manufacture based on the blade. My two look like old Wootz. Everything I see on that auction site has what I would call 'pattern' steel.

My apologies if I have offended.

[harrywagner]

Originally Posted by harrywagner

Thank you. Please feel free to help us by saying what dates you think these were made. I won't be offended. This was never about how old these were to begin with. It was about their decoration technique. Somehow we have gotten side-tracked. However, now that we are here, I will say I believe these are not recent manufacture based on the blade. My two look like old Wootz. Everything I see on that auction site has what I would call 'pattern' steel.

My apologies if I have offended.

Sorry, I think our posts must haven gotten crossed in the mail. I appreciate your help. Thank you.

[Gavin Nugent]

Harry,

Bidri work involves the carving/chiseling of surfaces as does Zar Buland.
My understanding is the Bidri applications are finished flush with the surface of the object and the Zar Buland is raised well above the surface.

Edit note, Koftgari is something again just so there is no confusion.

Indian Art in Delhi, 1903 by George Watt explains the many different varieties of each.

Gavin