In the current global product landscape, we are often faced with artifacts that impersonate what they are not. A fascinating case is that of ancient Indian craftsmanship, a little-known story that took place in the nineteenth century. At that time, a multitude of skilled Indian artisans moved to Morocco in search of opportunity and fortune. This phenomenon has left an indelible mark on Moroccan craftsmanship, particularly in the manufacture of wood.
The influences of Indian artisans are evident in many aspects of Moroccan craftsmanship, especially in the doors and portals that are often mistaken for Indian originals.
However, there are several ways to distinguish a non-original object from an authentic Indian door:
Wood: In Morocco, it is not common to find exotic woods such as rosewood or Sheesham, typical of Asia. The presence of such woods on doors or portals may indicate an Indian origin.
Closing mechanism: The Indian doors feature a characteristic lever closure with a distinctive "button" on the outside. This is a hallmark that is often missing in Moroccan manufactures.
Hinges: The hinges used on Indian doors have a unique and recognizable design, not easily replicable in Moroccan doors.
In addition to these obvious differences, there are other nuances to consider. For example, the types of nails used can vary between the two countries, as well as the techniques of antiquing the wood, often used to give a more ancient look to modern products.
Ultimately, the influence of Indian craftsmanship in modern Morocco is evident and fascinating. The mixture of traditions and styles has created a unique and rich artistic panorama.
However, it is important to be aware of the differences and distinctive features to fully appreciate the authenticity and value of these artifacts.
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