Davatgari, the art of crafting metal utensils
Davatgari is a type of forging that involves the craft of creating utensils and tools from metals like copper, brass, silver, gold, nickel silver, and others through hammer forging. During this process, skilled smiths start by bending metal plates precisely and methodically through hammer strikes, before adding components like handles or bases. They then secure these parts using soldering or welding techniques to form the tools in their entirety. A key indicator of the creator’s expertise is ensuring the final product is without any holes and maintains consistent metal thickness throughout.
The art of davatgari was historically widespread throughout Iran, with contemporary strongholds found in cities like Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Tabriz, and Arak. Davatgari, or cold forging, is considered one of humanity’s earliest professions, dating back thousands of years. Initially, craftsmen shaped cold metals using rocks to create basic utensils and objects. Today, three methods are employed in utensil production, integrating modern technology: one-piece (seamless), multi-piece (with seams), and a method utilizing metal bending machines.
In the one-piece method, the metal plate is cut into circles with a radius at least equal to the height of the desired object. The plate’s center is then placed on the anvil, and consistent hammer strikes are applied from the center outward to shape the plate into a bowl. Next, the plate is repositioned, and by striking the edges, the opening narrows, transforming the product into a vase or similar object.
In the multi-piece method, the artisan begins by cutting the metal into rectangular shapes. The height and width of this rectangular piece are determined to be suitable for the maximum height and circumference of the desired object. Subsequently, the edges of two adjacent pieces are thinned to half their original size through hammering.
In the third method, a machine called the “seh nezam” or Three Jaw Lathe Chuck is utilized. Similar to the first method, a circular plate is cut and placed into the machine alongside a cast iron mold shaped like the intended product. As the machine operates, the plate and the mold rotate in unison, while metal bars measuring fifty centimeters in length push the plate against the mold, shaping it accordingly. Trays, large plates, bowls, mirrors, and candle holders are among the various products crafted through davatgari.