Bell metal casting is a traditional bronze-working craft practised chiefly in Mannar in Alappuzha district and Payyanur in Kannur district, producing lamps, cooking vessels and religious idols valued for their durability and sacred association. The alloy, a mix of copper and tin, gives finished items their characteristic golden-bronze tone and resonant quality.
Among the best-known products are the nilavilakku oil lamp, a fixture in Kerala homes and temples, and the uruli, a wide-mouthed vessel traditionally used for cooking and floral decoration. The craft relies on centuries-old lost-wax casting techniques, largely unchanged and passed down through artisan families.
How It Is Made
Bell metal casting traditionally uses the lost-wax (cire perdue) method. A wax model of the object is first shaped, then coated in layers of clay to form a mould. The mould is heated so the wax melts and drains out, leaving a cavity into which molten bell metal alloy is poured.
- A detailed wax model is prepared by hand for each piece
- The wax is encased in clay and fired to remove it, forming a mould
- Molten copper-tin alloy is poured into the mould and left to cool
- The clay mould is broken away and the metal object is filed and polished
Because each mould is destroyed during casting, every finished piece is technically unique, and larger idols or urulis can take several days to complete.
Artisan Communities of Mannar and Payyanur
Mannar's bell metal artisans, known as Moosari or Vishwakarma communities, have practised the craft for generations, supplying temples across Kerala with lamps and ritual vessels. Payyanur in the north has a similarly old bronze-casting tradition tied to temple needs.
- Mannar is often referred to informally as the bell metal town of Kerala
- Artisan families work through cooperative societies to sustain production
- Bell metal items hold religious significance and are used in temple rituals across the state
The craft has faced competition from cheaper aluminium and steel alternatives, making cooperative support important for its survival.
Where to See and Buy Bell Metal Casting
Mannar town in Alappuzha district remains the best place to see bell metal casting workshops in action and to buy directly from artisans. Payyanur in Kannur district also has active bronze-casting units. Government emporiums such as SMSM Institute and Surabhi outlets stock certified pieces across Kerala.
- Genuine bell metal has a golden-bronze sheen and produces a distinct ringing sound when tapped
- Compare weight, as lighter imitation pieces may use inferior alloys
- Buying directly from Mannar cooperatives supports the local artisan community
Traveller Tips
- Tap the item lightly; genuine bell metal produces a clear resonant ring unlike cheaper alloys
- Buy from Mannar or Payyanur cooperatives or government emporiums for authenticity
- Bell metal items are heavy and solid, so factor this into shipping or luggage weight
- Supporting artisan cooperatives helps sustain a craft facing competition from mass-produced metalware
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bell metal?
It is a bronze alloy of copper and tin traditionally used in Kerala for lamps, vessels and idols.
What is the nilavilakku?
It is a traditional bell metal oil lamp widely used in Kerala homes and temples for daily and ceremonial lighting.
Which technique is used to cast bell metal items?
The lost-wax casting method, where a wax model is encased in clay, melted out and replaced with molten metal.
Where in Kerala is bell metal casting concentrated?
Mannar in Alappuzha district and Payyanur in Kannur district are the main centres of this craft.
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