Figure depicting the Tree of Life

Figure depicting the Tree of Life

A0707-255

Figure Depicting The Tree Of Life

Indian Asian

Orissa

Bengal

India

Khond People

20th C.

Patinated Brass



The Khonds are among the oldest tribes of India, known for their animist practices and rituals. They are well known for their imaginative metalwork, called Dhokra, a Hindi word meaning ''folk art.'' Many of the objects are made using the lost-wax process using metal and alloys of various compositions. Dhokra artifacts, famous for their uniqueness, seem to be inspired by silver filigree work. When examining this ''Tree of Life'' depiction, one can get a sense of the spontaneity Khond craftsmen harness to celebrate the activities and relationships of village life.