A metal handicraft from the Bidar area in Karnataka, the origin of Bidri Ware as a craft is attributed mostly to the Bahamani Sultans who ruled the region during the 14th and 15th centuries. Beautifully delicate inlay work of silver, and gold, on strikingly black alloyed metal leaves the onlooker hooked to its elegant beauty. The craft was developed as a family business among artisans’ families, where even women take part in the making of the metalware. It is practiced mostly in Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh these days. Sultan, who belongs to a Bidri crafting family, explains the process. Bidri Ware is manufactured from an alloy of copper, and zinc (in the ratio 1:16) by casting. The zinc content gives the alloy a deep black color. The craftsman uses small chisels to engrave the desig