Kandyan silver filigree jewelry (Kasthane and Hawadi): dawn anvil forging techniques?
How do master silversmiths in Pilimathalawa draw fine 0.2mm silver wire through steel drawplates to craft traditional bridal chain belts (Hawadi)?
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3 Answers from travellers
Artisanal silver filigree work in the craft villages of Pilimathalawa requires hand-drawing high-purity silver (925 sterling or refined coin silver). Smiths melt silver ingots in clay crucibles, pour thin ingots, and pull them manually through graduated tungsten-carbide or hardened steel drawplates (Petti Thahaduwa) lubricated with beeswax. The wire is repeatedly annealed over charcoal blowpipes to maintain ductility as it draws down to 0.2mm diameter. The fine wire is twisted into double cords and formed with tweezers into floral scrolls (Liyawel) soldered inside structural frame rims.
The finished filigree pieces are cleaned in boiling tamarind water and rubbed with soft brass brushes to restore silvery luster without abrasive scratches.
The traditional Kandyan waist belt (Hawadi) comprises multiple interlocking flexible filigree bands connected by a carved floral buckle.
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