Metal statue art work is highly regarded and admired in Nepal for its advanced craftsmanship. Metal art in Nepal has a rich history that dates back to the seventh century AD. Early expertise in working with metal closely ties Kathmandu Valley's prosperity. The Tamrakar, Shakya, and Swarnakars of Nepal have a rich history of using a distinctive lost wax metal sculpting process to create exquisite metal sculptures. They were also able to achieve heat levels that were capable of melting gold, which brought them immense recognition and wealth in the Himalayan region, specifically Tibet.
In the past, family secrets were closely guarded and difficult to access. However, with the advent of technology, aspiring artisans without a family lineage can now easily access chemical recipes and trade secrets, which has proven to be beneficial for many. In the world of art, bronze was once the go-to material for creating statues. However, over time, copper has taken its place as the preferred choice among skilled artisans. There is a wide selection of metal art available for buyers to choose from, thanks to the numerous workshops and stores.
There are several locations that are famous for their exquisite hand-worked metal art, such as Patan, Chainpur, Palpa, and Bhojpur (the latter three are also renowned for their high-quality kitchen utensils).
Creating metal statues is a complex process that demands exceptional expertise. Creating a large piece of art is a time-consuming process that requires the collaboration of multiple individuals. At times, manually creating the work can be quite tiring. In 1998, metal art production was subject to strict government regulations. A select few families closely guarded the art of quality metalwork. The family circle carefully preserved and handed down the skill through the generations.
The Tamrakars meticulously craft their metal creations, dedicating ample time to each piece. This attention to detail limits their ability to mass-produce their artwork. They craft statues of Hindu and Buddhist deities. They not only produce traditional jars and plates, but also work with brass and bronze, crafting pieces commonly used in ceremonial events.
Shakyas are a clan known for their expertise in creating metal art using the lost-wax method. The Swarnakars specialize in working with gold. We import the raw materials for metal statues, such as copper, brass, and bronze, from various countries, including Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates. Raw materials undergo processing in Japan or Taiwan.
Even in the present day, the people of Kathmandu, Nepal, remain dedicated to the ancient and cultural traditions bestowed upon them by their ancestors. The Tamrakar, Shakyas, and Swarnakars continue to cherish and uphold these precious gifts. The metal work is truly exceptional, resulting in statues that garner worldwide admiration and value. You can find their impressive collection of examples throughout the various parts of Kathmandu Valley, a popular tourist destination for centuries.