The name Dhokra is derived from the traditional metalsmith tribes that live in West Bengal, Ordisha and Jharkhand. What is special about these sculptures is the technique – the lost wax process, which results in sculptures that are hollow as opposed to cast solid. This technique has been in use in India for over 4000 years, or since the Indus Valley Civilisation.

The technique also lends a special textural quality to the metal, that of coils which results in an appealing form. The sculptures are simple in their forms and includes human figures, animals and even trees and other objects.