The tradition of bronze casting the idols of deities in Karnataka came from two ideas. The belief that bronze exudes divine energy on the one hand and the need for functionality on the other, so that the idols didn’t break. Centuries-old bronze sculptures found in the region show artistic influences dating back to the rule of the Chalukyas and Hoysalas. The temple-town of Udupi is known for its bronze idols and bell metal casting. Karkala, among the oldest places where Jainism found roots, is known for its ritualistic objects that are made using bronze casting. These objects like pot, lamps, and bells are used for worship. Bhoota figures in the form of bronze-cast masks and idols are also famous.

Bronze is cast using the lost wax method, also called cire-perdue in French. For this, molten metal is poured into a mould created with a wax model.

Once the mould is made, the wax model is melted and drained away. The hollow core can be affected by the introduction of a heat-proof core to prevent the molten metal from totally filling the mould. Among the tools used are box moulds, clay crucible, blower, tongs, chisel, furnace, and buffing machine.

The artists create intricate designs after the process of casting. The craft is also used to make household items such as lamps, cutlery, crockery, and showpieces. While Nagamangala is known for intricate designs, Mangalore is known for its expertise in making domestic items using bronze casting. Bronze casting is often done for seasonal employment, mainly between March and May. This includes the festival season that reflects in a surge of sales. In other months, agriculture is the dominant and preferred way of earning a livelihood for the locals.

Karnataka bronzeware is certified with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

With its Shaivite origins, the sun and the moon are persistent in the design vocabulary of this craft. According to AsiaInCH, the embellishment of bronze-cast figures is similar to those used in Yakshagna masks, like beaded rope work and gold tassels.

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