Aranmula kannadi
Aranmula kannadi is a
handmade metal-alloy mirror, made in Aranmula, a small town in the state of
Kerala, India. Unlike the normal "silvered" glass mirrors, it is a
metal-alloy mirror or front surface reflection mirror, which eliminates
secondary reflections and aberrations typical of back surface mirrors. The
exact metals used in the alloy are maintained as a Vishwakarma family secret.
Metallurgists suggest that the alloy is a mix of copper and tin. It is polished
for several days to achieve the miror's reflective surface. They are considered
to be one of the eight auspicious items or "ashtamangalyam" that play
a role in the entry of the bride at a wedding venue. These unique metal mirrors
are the result of Kerala's rich cultural and metallurgical traditions.
They
have great historical and cultural value and are thought to bring good luck.
They are produced by one extended family in Aranmula. The origins of the
Aranmula kannadi are linked to the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple. According to
legend, centuries ago the royal chief brought eight families of experts in
temple arts and crafts from Tirunelveli district to Aranmula to work on the
mirrors in the Parthasarathy temple.
The British Museum in London has an Aranmula metal mirror 45
centimeters tall in its collection. The mirrors received a geographical
indication (GI) tag in 2004-05.
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