In Nepal, making metal statues starts with people showing pictures of existing sculptures or old thangkas. They also specify the size and finish they want; subsequently, skilled craftsmen carefully create full-scale clay models based on the precise shape and proportions of the ancient figures.
Once the clay model is complete, artisans make a detailed mold of the statue out of wax. This process is challenging and time-consuming, often taking up to three months. They cover the finished mold with a layer of cow dung, mud, and rice husks, creating a mixture that can withstand intense heat.
Next, they put the wax mold covered in mud into an oven. The heat melts the wax, leaving a hollow mold. Then, they pour molten metal into the hole. Only a few people know how to mix the metal for the best result. These experts travel around Kathmandu, offering their special skills to different workshops.
After the metal has cooled, the mud and dung covering is removed, revealing a rough version of the metal statue. The next step is to give the forms to the welders. They fix any holes and attach the hands to the bodies. Making the heads is a special skill. The welder usually welds the heads onto larger figures after completing most of the other work.
The next stage involves the carvers, who refine the surfaces using thin steel tools and small hammers. They engrave details into the fine decoration, picking out beads and jewelry and carving traditional patterns on the clothing folds.
Finally, the figures are polished, buffed, and gilded; they are then painted and embellished with stones. The entire process of creating these sculptures takes several months to several years. Craftsmen do every step entirely by hand, showcasing Nepal’s fine metalworking tradition.