| Title | ताम्र पत्र (Copper Sheet)Rare Tāmra Patra Copper Sheet |
|---|---|
| Description | तांबे की चादर (Tāṁbe Kī Chādara), or copper sheet, is a non-ferrous metal construction material extensively used throughout Indic history. Chemically composed primarily of copper (Cu), its geological origin lies in copper ore deposits found in regions like Rajasthan and Jharkhand [2]. Processing involves mining, smelting, and subsequent rolling into thin sheets. Physical properties include a density of 8960 kg/m³, tensile strength of 200-250 MPa, high thermal conductivity (401 W/mK), and excellent electrical conductivity (5.96 x 10^7 S/m) [3]. Historically, ताम्र पत्र (Tāmra Patra) served as roofing, cladding, and decorative elements in structures built by the Maurya, Gupta, Chola, and Vijayanagara dynasties. Its durability stems from natural patina formation, a protective layer against corrosion. Conservation efforts at heritage sites often involve cleaning, repairing, and replacing damaged sheets, ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic preservation. Traditional construction methods, documented in ancient texts, highlight its use in temples and palaces. The Getty AAT classifies "coppers (regalia)" [1], reflecting its historical significance. |
| Also Known As | Copper Sheet Tāmra Patra Copper Sheet Copper Plate Sheet Copper ताम्र पत्र तांबे की चादर ताम्र पटल তামার পাত (Bengali) செப்புத் தகடு (Tamil) రాగి రేకు (Telugu) ತಾಮ್ರ ಹಾಳೆ (Kannada) ചെമ്പ് ഷീറ്റ് (Malayalam) |
| Tags | तांबा Tambe Copper Sheet Metal Corrosion Resistance Tāmra |
| Material ID | INHFMAT-817968336-20-11-25-TB |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/copper-sheet |
| API Endpoint | https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/copper-sheet |
| Total Sites | 1 |
| Primary Sites | 1 |
| Created | November 20, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 28, 2025 |
External References
Material Types
| Types | Metal Sheet Metal Copper Non-ferrous Metal |
|---|
Regions
| Regions | Rajasthan Jharkhand Madhya Pradesh Tamil Nadu Maharashtra Andhra Pradesh |
|---|
Historical Context
| Time Periods | Ancient Medieval Modern |
|---|---|
| Dynasties | Chola Vijayanagara Maurya Gupta |
Geographic Sources
| Sources | Khetri copper mines (Rajasthan) Malanjkhand copper mines (Madhya Pradesh) Singhbhum copper belt (Jharkhand) Copper refineries |
|---|
Properties
| Properties | Tensile strength: 200-250 MPa Density: 8960 kg/m³ Thermal conductivity: 401 W/mK Electrical conductivity: 5.96 x 10^7 S/m Melting point: 1085 °C |
|---|
Common Uses
| Uses | Roofing Cladding Decorative elements Electrical wiring Lightning protection Electrical grounding Statues |
|---|
Related Materials
| Materials | पीतल - Peetal (Brass) जस्ता - Jasta (Zinc) कील - Keel (Nails) कांस्य - Kansya (Bronze) लकड़ी - Lakdi (Wood) चूना - Chunā (Lime Mortar) |
|---|
Related Styles
| Styles | Rajput architecture style Mughal architecture style Traditional Indian architecture Temple architecture South Indian Temple Architecture |
|---|
Related Categories
| Categories | Temple Palace Dome Temples Historical buildings Monument Statue Roofing |
|---|
Conservation Notes
| Notes |
|
|---|
Recommended Sources
| Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Ferrous Metals in Indian Architecture | Research Paper | Copper applications |
| Copper Development Association Publications | Technical Guide | Copper roofing and cladding |
| The Art and Science of Copper | Book | Properties and applications of copper |
| Indian Institute of Metals Publications | Technical Report | Copper metallurgy and applications |
Heritage Sites (1)
| Site Name | Status | Usage | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sri Venkateswara Temple Helensburgh | Primary | 100% |