Behind-the-scenes
Tarkashi Techniques
- Selecting the Wood:- High-quality, seasoned wood is carefully chosen and prepared to serve as the perfect base for brass wire inlay.
- Design Transfer:- Traditional motifs and intricate patterns are sketched or traced onto the wood surface to guide the brass wire placement.
- Carving Grooves:- Skilled artisans carve fine, shallow grooves along the design lines, precisely shaping channels to hold the brass wire.
- Cutting Brass Wire:- Thin brass wires are hand-cut and shaped to fit seamlessly into the carved grooves, matching every curve and detail.
- Inlaying Brass Wire:- The brass wire is meticulously pressed and fitted into the grooves, ensuring a flush and smooth surface.
- Securing & Polishing:- The inlaid wire is secured with natural adhesives, then the entire surface is polished to enhance the contrast between warm wood and gleaming brass.
- Final Finishing:- A protective coating or lacquer is applied to preserve the art, highlighting the intricate brass inlay and giving the piece lasting beauty.
Marori Techniques
- Surface Preparation:- The brass surface is carefully cleaned and polished to create a smooth, flawless base for detailed handwork.
- Design Sketching:- Traditional floral, paisley, or geometric motifs are hand-drawn or transferred onto the brass using chalk or fine ink.
- Etching the Design:- Using specialized hand tools like chisels and burins, artisans intricately carve shallow patterns into the brass with precision and patience.
- Filling with Lac:- Natural lac (a resinous material) is filled into the engraved areas to hold black enamel and enhance contrast in the design.
- Application of Enamel or Color:- A deep black pigment or enamel is applied over the lac-filled patterns to define the design and highlight its richness.
- Polishing & Finishing:- The surface is finely polished by hand to bring out the golden glow of brass while retaining the depth of the etched design.
- Final Detailing:- Minor refinements are made to ensure consistency, sharpness, and a luxurious finish—making each piece a true work of art.