THE ROMANCE OF TRADE

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVI, Issue 304, 21 November 1936, Page 14

THE ROMANCE OF TRADE

Brass has been known and worked for hundreds of years in India and China. Chinese brass, the colour of 9-carat gold, is usually cast into shape, with heavy raised designs of dragons, the sun, the moon, and legendary figures, an integral part of the casting. Indian brassware lias a greater copper content, is more malleable, and of a rich red, gold hue. Patterns of animals, conventional flower designs, and the figures of Hindu deities are etched, and then coloured with enamels. The designs indicate the place of origin—Delhi, Agra, Allahabad, Benares, and Jaipur; each has its traditional motifs and colours. In almost any Indian town the brass wallah, descendant of a long line of hereditary brass workers, is to be seen hammering, graving, and burnishing his wares where all who pass may see. When you want ornaments or a gift a little unusual, you will find a great deal to interest you in the retail advertisements to be found daily in the “Evening Standard.” Make a point of reading these advertisements daily for your profit and pleasure.