Page:Madras journal of literature and science vol 1 new series 1856-57.djvu/93

OCT. — DEC. 1856.] Description of Biddery Ware. 81

V. Description of the Manufacture of Biddery Ware. By George Smith, m. d., Residency Surgeon, Hyderabad.

[Communicated by the Committee of the Madras Exhibition for 1857.]

On passing through Beder about two months ago, I thought it would be well, to make a few enquiries into the mode of manufacturing the unique and elegant ware commonly called Biddery; accordingly I procured two workmen, who, partly shewed and partly explained to me the several stages of the manufacture; the information thus obtained may assist those desirous of imitating his beautiful ware.

Suppose the vessel to be made, resembles in form the common small hookah bottom (vide Fig. No. 1). The steps of the manufacture are as follows—Amass of finely pounded and sifted old laterite dust mixed with cow-dung, is put upon a rude lathe, and when dry is carefully turned into the correct shape. The lathe is rude and simple, and is turned either by the hand alone, or by a short rope attached to a small piece of wood (vide Fig. No. 2);