Dhamrai Lost-Wax Cast Brass Oil Lamp (Pradip)

A standing pradip oil lamp cast by the cire perdue method: the form is modelled in beeswax, packed in clay, then fired so the wax runs out and molten brass takes its place. The mould is broken to release each casting, so every lamp is by definition unique and carries faint tool marks from hand-finishing. Dhamrai has cast brass this way for more than five centuries; the workshop uses recycled scrap brass exclusively. Left unlacquered so it darkens naturally.

Cooperative

Dhamrai Metal & Clay Works

Weight

1.8 kg

Origin

Dhamrai, Bangladesh

Material

Solid recycled brass

Craft

Lost-wax (cire perdue) casting, practised in Dhamrai for over 500 years

Dimensions

25 cm height x 12 cm base

Care

Polish with a dry cloth; use a mild brass cleaner sparingly. Leave unpolished if a darker patina is preferred. Wash the oil well by hand.

Finish

Unlacquered recycled brass, hand-buffed to a natural lustre. Patina develops with age.