Presidency. They are made of copper or some other cheap metal, and the designs are varied and often pretty. From an ethnological point of view they are of great interest, and they are also suggestive from an artistic point of view.
Such articles are largely made in Jaipur, and some of the castings are wonderful examples of skill and ingenuity. For example, a bracelet of elaborate interlacing gold links is cast in one piece by means of a clay mould and wax. The oldest and best forms are found amongst the poor, because they are not so easily taken by novelties, and their ornaments, if broken up, would be worth less than as they are.
Mock Jewellery.
Imitation of gold and silver jewellery is made in all parts of India. The practice of imitating jewels and jewellery has been carried on from ancient times, as shown by the incident related in the old Drama, the "Toy Cart," quoted both by Sir George Birdwood and Dr. Rájendra Lála Mitra. The incident refers to a question raised about the reality of certain jewels produced in a Court of Justice, and Wilson in his "Hindu Theatre" thus translates the passage:—
Judge.—Do you know these ornaments?
Mother.—Have I not said? They may be different, though like. I cannot say more; they may be imitations made by some skilful artist.
Judge.—It is true. Provost, examine them; they may be different, though like; the dexterity of the artist is no doubt very great, and they readily fabricate imitations of ornaments they have once seen in such a manner that the difference shall scarcely be discernible.
In Bengal brass jewellery is often gilded with gold and silver and is largely worn by low castes.
