Iron in Ancient India c6.s6.22

c6.s6.22

I am not aware of any analysis of the iron of this pillar. Local tradition states that it is made of seven metals (saptadhātu), but such tradition was also current at Delhi also. If Cousen's theory be true, viz., that the pillar was made by melting down the weapons left by the enemy, then the pillar should be made mainly of steel. As a proof of this theory white shining patches are shown on the pillar as indicating silver obtained from the silver hilts of swords. Such a theory on the face of it is improbable, as such an enormous column of steel was incapable of being forged. This pillar like the one at Delhi is undoubtedly made of wrought iron and in a similar manner.