Abstract:
This dissertation project aims to explore copper and its alloys as material, and use it to highlight the transitional spaces from its surrounding. The history of civilization is in many ways linked to the story of the use of metals in antiquity. Although modern metallurgy has seen an exponential growth since the Industrial Revolution it is interesting that many modern concepts in metallurgy have their seeds in ancient practices that pre-date the Industrial Revolution. The commonly used metals in antiquity include gold, silver, copper, iron, tin, lead, zinc and mercury. The heritage in metallurgy, medicine, mathematics and astronomy is a matter of pride for India. India has a rich and vibrant history filled with varied cultures and traditions. As part of our cultural heritage, various skilled art and craft forms are practiced by artisans from all corners of the country. This dissertation explores the use of copper which has been a part and parcel of the rich heritage of India for many years. Copper was first used by man over 10,000 years ago. A copper pendant discovered in what is now northern Iraq has been dated about 8700 B.C. For nearly five millennia copper was the only metal known to man, and thus had all the metal applications.
