Sarthebari Metal Craft

Bell-metal utensils are believed to have medicinal properties and help prevent intestinal problems. They are made from various raw materials like clay, jute fiber, rice bran, mustard oil, charcoal, borax, zinc, and shalpatra. The process is manual, and the objects are heavier and bulkier due to the extensive use of metal. The royal family of Ahom kings of the Great Ahom dynasty of Assam served food in bell-metal glasses due to their mineral content. Common objects made by artisans in Sarthebari include water pots, sarai, dishes, batis, lotas, and tals. The technology used in making these objects is traditional and simple, using anvils, hammers, pincers, flies, chisels, and minor equipment. The craft sector operates on a hereditary system, with artisans inheriting knowledge from their elders.