Korik (Traditional Blacksmith’s Bellows)

Description

The korik is a traditional bellows used by blacksmiths and metalworkers to force air into a forge during the heating, melting, and working of metal. The object has a characteristic dombra-like form, widening toward the rear and narrowing toward the front. Its upper and lower wooden panels are joined by flexible side sections forming the bellows mechanism. The tapered front section terminates in a wooden and metal nozzle for directing the airflow into the forge, with metal fasteners and clamps. Longitudinal wooden reinforcing elements and valve openings are located on the upper panel. The bellows belonged to Alipbay Dauitbayuly and were used by him, including during the Great Patriotic War, for making metal objects. It was donated to the museum by his grandson, Magzom Dauitbayev.
Date: 1930
Material: Wood, metal, leather/textile
Technique: Handmade; carpentry and metalworking assembly
Size: 1.30 × 50 cm