Cuttack silver filigree (Tarakasi )

Filigree is one of a kind art. She has her own unique style and excellent craftsmanship. Cuttack district has a long history of meticulous and sophisticated craftsmanship in silver filigree works Locally known as “Tarakasi,” Cuttack ‘s silver filigree is renowned for its delicacy and intricate manner of working. The art is ancient since the 15th century and has its roots in Persian countries.

During the Moghul era this craft had ample patronage but subsequently suffered due to a lack of encouragement and marketing facilities. In difficult conditions, most of the artisans engaged in the trade had to search for other avenues for their livelihood. The initative of the State Govt, however, to put the craft into cooperative fold in 1952 has improved the conditions of the craftsmen.

There are three types of filigree crafts for making filigree objects, such as Rose work, Siko work and Jali work. First, the artisans prepare a frame work for the article through a piece of silver wire drawn as fine as a spider’s web into the thread. Then weave texture inside the frame and place it inside. Then the entire thing is fixed and soldered onto a mica sheet with an indigenous paste.

It is burnt in fire and washed in soap-nut water to give it a finish. Excellent finish, delicate foils, texture and snowy glaze differentiate filigree work from other ornaments and jewellery. Therefore they are addressed to dignitaries in an event had several prominent national and foreign personalities.Decorative parts of the chariot of Lord Krishna, Konark chakra and a number of other eye catching & dazzling silver ornaments are a craze for modern fashion loving women. The invention of machine finish is a challenge to the industry, which creative craftsmen ‘s creations can counterbalance.

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