thumb|New Aranmula Kannadi

thumb|

thumb| in its raw, unpolished form

thumb| in various etched brass frames on display

Aranmula Kannadi, meaning the Aranmula mirror, is a handmade, metal-alloy, first surface mirror made in Aranmula, a small town in Pathanamthitta in the state of Kerala, India.

Description

Unlike normal "silvered" glass mirrors, it is a metal-alloy mirror or first surface mirror or front surface reflection mirror, which eliminates secondary reflections and aberrations typical of back surface mirrors. They are produced by one extended family in Aranmula. The exact metals used in the alloy are maintained as family secrets; metallurgists suggest that the alloy is a mix of copper and tin, so a type of speculum metal, counting as a bronze mirror. It is polished for several days to achieve the mirror's reflective surface. The polishing is done using an abrasive paste made by mixing rice bran with oil extracted from seeds of maroṭṭi (Hydnocarpus pentandrus).

Cultural significance

The origins of the are linked to Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple. According to legend, centuries ago the royal chief brought eight families of temple artisans and craftsmen from Tirunelveli district in Tamil Nadu to Aranmula to create the mirrors in the temple.

These unique mirrors are the result of then Kerala's rich cultural and metallurgical traditions. They have great historical and cultural value, and are thought to bring good luck.

See also

  • Aranmula Kottaram
  • Bronze mirror
  • Speculum metal

References

Bibliography

  • Aranmulakannadi.org