The Bidri Collection by Nolwa Studio, a Hyderabad-based design house, presents a contemporary interpretation of traditional craftsmanship. This curated set of four pieces—the Horizon Lamp, Drop Table, Monolith, and Facet Mirror—celebrates the venerable Bidri style, a 600-year-old art of metal inlaying originating from Karnataka, India. This complex eight-step process involves skilled artisans, creating a striking contrast between silver inlays against an oxidized black backdrop. Through this collection, Nolwa Studio redefines luxury by intertwining ancient traditions with modern sensibilities.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Designer: Nolwa Studio
Location: Hyderabad, India
Collection: Bidri Collection
Technique: Bidri Metal Inlaying
Founder: Rohit Naag
The Drop Table is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship of the Bidri style, featuring a distinctive pattern that accentuates the luster of hand-etched metal. Its base, reminiscent of a shallow bowl, is adorned with small silver inlays to form rippling patterns. These details evoke serene underwater rainfalls, with the inlaid divots crafted by hand, then filled with silver, thus marrying tactile fluidity with visual elegance. The circular glass tabletop not only encourages a sense of calm but also offers an unobstructed view of the intricate base below, making it a functional yet meditative centerpiece.
The Horizon Lamp stands as a modern marvel of Bidri artistry, exemplifying the harmony of age-old techniques in contemporary forms. Its layers of inlay create an ethereal, golden glow framed by a solid dark border, reminiscent of a night sky. The satin finish bestows richness, with the light cascading through the intricately laid designs, evoking an ancestral warmth. This piece navigates time by shedding light on the generational artistry embedded within each layer, inviting observers to connect with the temporal yet timeless interpretations of light and form.
In contrast, the Facet Mirror offers a geometric display of Bidri engravings. With its balanced proportions, this mirror unites past introspection with future possibilities. The hand-laid striping and golden planes within reflect a strong graphic design influence, elevating the piece to a conversation between tradition and modernity. The mirror’s design acts as a catalyst for self-reflection and forward-thinking, blending the old with new in a seamless narrative that speaks to the art form’s evolution through time.
The Monolith presents an intriguing exploration of space and dimensions, comprising multi-cuboid structures with towering vertical forms. This piece plays with visual perception through dazzle camouflage patterns and mid-century graphic influences. The variations in line gaps, thicknesses, and the strategic use of negative space keep onlookers engaged, as the lamp reveals its secrets from different perspectives. Through this spatial discourse, Nolwa Studio encourages the viewer to interact physically and mentally with its pieces, fostering a dynamic relationship between observer and object.
Nolwa Studio’s founder and creative mind, Rohit Naag, was inspired to channel his passion for design into the Bidri Collection after returning to India from a successful career in diverse industries across the globe. Struggling initially to find a platform for his artistic vision amid societal expectations of traditional professions, Naag embraced the cultural richness of Indian craftsmanship. In collaboration with skilled designers worldwide, he crafted the Bidri Collection, a homage to India’s profound craft traditions. This collection not only showcases immaculate craftsmanship but also bridges gaps between ancient narratives and contemporary luxury, proving that cultural artistry can flourish within modern design landscapes.
