Beaten Silver Work of West Bengal

The craft of beaten silver work started in Bhabanipur, West Bengal during the colonial days. The cluster would cater to the demands for intricate and exotic silverware of the kings of different states, dignitaries like viceroys and the governors. However, after independence and the abolition of the Zamindari system, the glory of the craft started fading away due to lack of clientele. Craftsperson’s started diversifying their skills in an attempt to expand their production to other metal works and also to making trophies, medallions and other minor utensils.

Silver sheets are beaten into desired shapes on an anvil, and the ends fused with paan, a solution of silver and brass in the ratio of 16:7. Designs are chiselled on the surface, and the polishing is done by hand.