Amal Dhatu

Prakāsham - Vallam

Name: Prakāsham - Vallam
Brand: Amal Dhatu
Price: 83600.00 INR
Availability: OutOfStock

Rs. 83,600.00 INR

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Prakāsham – Vallam Edition

Prakāsham, meaning “light,” draws from the Sanskrit root prakāśa — to illuminate, to reveal, to bring into being. In Indian philosophy, light is not simply radiance; it is knowledge, presence, and grace — that which allows all things to be seen and understood. The Prakāsham – Vallam Edition embodies this spirit, transforming ritual form into an artefact of quiet luminosity.

Two copper vessels sit in perfect balance, their rounded tops gilded in varak silver leaf and etched with celestial geometry by chillai artisans from Lucknow and Kolkata. The engraved motifs, echoing the rays of the sun, reveal threads of copper beneath the silver — a deliberate exposure that evokes the meeting of light and warmth, of reflection and earth. Each piece is handspun by the Tambat artisans of Pune, the rhythm of their hammering creating a surface alive with movement and subtle depth.

The vessels rest upon an altar carved in Green Bidasar marble, its elongated, tapering form inspired by the Vallam boats of Kerala — vessels that once ferried offerings across tranquil backwaters. Here, that form is reborn in stone, grounding the luminous metals above. The marble’s dark green veins ripple like still waters, holding the memory of the river and the motion of devotion.

In its essence, the Prakāsham – Vallam Edition is a study in duality and harmony — between the gleam of silver and the depth of stone, between the ritual and the sculptural, between the handcrafted and the timeless. It may serve as a ceremonial vessel, traditionally holding Mukhwās for guests of honour or Kumkum during intimate rituals. Yet it stands equally as an objet d’art, a contemplative centrepiece that invites pause and presence.

Every curve, every surface bears the imprint of the human hand — the devotion of the Tambat, the precision of the chillai engraver, the intuition of the stone carver. Together, they create an object that transcends its materiality — a piece that is at once functional, symbolic, and sculptural.

The Prakāsham – Vallam Edition is not simply a vessel of light, but an homage to India’s great continuum of craft, where ancient skill meets modern design, and where the act of making becomes an offering.

LEAD TIME

Each object is entirely made by an artisan by hand. All the copper sheets are heated and cooled over 5 times, annealing them for strength, some of them can they over 6 weeks to produce. Each marble block is sourced ethically from ancient quarries of Rajasthan, Hampi and Mahabalipuram, and hand carved over couple of weeks.

Current lead times are : 10-12 weeks.

Design Philosophy

The Prakāsham Vallam Edition is an ode to illumination — a celebration of light as it moves across metal, stone, and form.
Inspired by the Vallam, the slender snake boats that glide through Kerala’s backwaters, the design embodies the idea of stillness in motion — a vessel poised between flow and repose.

Two hand-spun copper boxes rest upon a sculpted Green Bidasar marble plate, their silver-gilded surfaces engraved through the traditional Chillai technique to reveal the warmth of copper beneath. This duality of metals, one radiant and one earthen, evokes the play of sunlight upon rippling water — a harmony of reflection and depth.

The Vallam’s elongated profile anchors the composition, its carved seats cradling each box with precision. Together, they speak of balance — between tradition and contemporaneity, craftsmanship and contemplation, light and its tranquil shadow.

Crafting Techniques

The Prakāsham Vallam Edition is an embodiment of luminous artistry and ancestral skill:

Hand-Spun Copper Boxes: Each vessel begins as a hand-spun copper form — the base from which all precision and beauty unfold. The artisan’s steady rhythm at the lathe ensures perfect symmetry and balance, while subtle variations in curvature preserve the individuality of handcraft. These twin forms rest in quiet harmony, their profiles matched with masterful precision to the stone base beneath.

Silver Gilding & Chillai Engraving: Once shaped, each box is silver-gilded through a delicate process of metal-leafing. Upon this luminous surface, artisans employ the ancient Chillai engraving technique—painstakingly etching fine patterns to reveal the glowing copper beneath. The result is a dialogue of light and shadow, silver and copper, reflecting both restraint and radiance.

Hand-Carved Green Bidasar Marble Base: The two boxes repose on a marble plate sculpted from Rajasthan’s Green Bidasar stone, prized for its rich, veined character. Shaped in the form of a Vallam—the traditional snake boat of Kerala—it features two hand-cut seats that cradle the copper forms seamlessly. The precise alignment between metal and stone demonstrates an extraordinary mastery of proportion, intuition, and hand-eye coordination.

Each Prakāsham Vallam is thus a meditation in craft: where metal meets marble, tradition meets light, and stillness meets form.

Care Guide

Copper Care:
Gently clean with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
To maintain its luster, use a natural copper polish or a lemon-and-salt solution occasionally.
Over time, copper develops a patina,this is a natural aging process that enhances its beauty. If you prefer the original shine, regular polishing is recommended.

Stone Care:
Wipe with a damp cloth to remove dust and residue. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they may affect the stone’s natural texture.

Materials

Copper (99% Pure Copper)

At Amaldhatu, we use 99% pure copper, chosen for its unmatched luster, durability, and ability to develop a rich patina over time. Sourced from responsible suppliers, our copper sheets are carefully inspected for uniform grain structure, ensuring they respond beautifully to techniques like hand-spinning, hammering, and brushing. Each finish—whether the subdued elegance of matt brush, the linear sheen of polished striations, or the textural depth of mataarkaam—enhances copper’s natural brilliance. Our selection prioritizes minimal impurities, ensuring longevity while embracing the evolving beauty of aged copper, making every piece a living testament to time-honored craftsmanship.

Silver (99.5% Silver for Gilding & Detailing)

We use 99.5% silver for our gilding and embellishments, ensuring a perfect balance between purity and strength. The silver must exhibit exceptional adhesion properties for vermeil applications, allowing it to bond seamlessly with copper for enduring brilliance. Every silver-gilded detail is chosen for its resistance to tarnishing, developing a patina that complements the warm glow of copper. Ethically sourced and meticulously applied, our silver detailing transforms functional objects into luminous heirlooms, elevating their aesthetic and symbolic significance.

Bidasar Marble (Rainforest Marble, Rajasthan)

Each piece of Bidasar marble we select is distinguished by its deep, earthy hues and intricate, meandering veins—patterns reminiscent of ancient landscapes. We carefully source slabs with optimal density and minimal fissures to ensure both beauty and resilience. This marble, celebrated for its warm, organic tones, pairs exquisitely with our handcrafted copper, creating a tactile contrast that enriches the design. Every stone is inspected for porosity and finish compatibility, allowing it to be sculpted into smooth, undulating surfaces that reflect both nature’s raw elegance and the artisan’s refined touch.

Occasion

A statement piece that emanates a tranquil demeanor and luminous charm, the Prakāsham Vallam is perfect for:

Evening gatherings & festive rituals, where its gleaming copper form reflects the warmth of light and shared tradition.

Dining and gourmet settings, as a centerpiece that evokes the spirit of South India’s riverine culture and artisanal mastery.

Contemporary and heritage interiors alike, bringing depth, movement, and a quiet sense of reverence to the space it inhabits.

Gifting Ideas and Pairings

This object makes an exquisite gift for those who appreciate artistry, heritage, and thoughtful design. Ideal for:

Weddings & Anniversaries - A meaningful heirloom, symbolizing eternity and unity.

Housewarming Gifts - A luxurious addition to any new home.

Festive Gifting - A distinguished present for loved ones.

Packaging

Variations

Since each tray is hand-crafted, there will be natural, beautiful variations in pattern and colour of the copper sheets, polish and finish. These are sure signs of an authenticity. The final sizes and heights can vary by up to 4% from what is ordered.

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Returns + shipping

Can I return my piece?

All orders are final and we cannot accept returns. Please ensure all finish, colors, and design are correct before submitting your order!

Can I cancel my order?

After placing an order, you have until 7:00 PM ET the following day to cancel and get your money back.

What if I don't like what I ordered?

We certainly hope that never happens! We're here to answer whatever questions you've got before you place an order to ensure you're 100% happy with your one-of-a-kind design.