Question 1

What is सीसा (Lead)?

Accepted Answer

सीसा (Sīsā), also known as शीशा (Śīśā), नाग (Nāga), or नागधातु (Nāgadhātu) in Sanskrit, and locally as ஈயம் (Īyam), సీసం (Sīsaṁ), ಸೀಸ (Sīsa), or ഈയം (Īyaṁ), is a soft, dense metal (density: 11.34 g/cm³) with a low melting point (327.5 °C) [1]. Historically sourced from mines in Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh, lead served critical functions in Indic architecture, particularly during the Medieval and Maratha periods. Its malleability facilitated its use in sealing joints and waterproofing roofs, evidenced in structures from these eras [2]. Lead's low tensile strength (12-17 MPa) and high thermal expansion coefficient (29 x 10⁻⁶ /°C) necessitate careful consideration in its application. Traditional processing involved smelting galena (PbS), the primary lead ore. Lead was also a component in bell metal alloys. Conservation requires addressing corrosion and potential lead leaching. Restoration efforts at heritage sites must prioritize safe handling and appropriate replacement materials [3]. The Maratha Dynasty utilized lead extensively.

Question 2

What type of material is सीसा (Lead)?

Accepted Answer

सीसा (Lead) is classified as Metal, Alloy Component. Key properties include Density: 11.34 g/cm³, Melting point: 327.5 °C, Tensile strength: 12-17 MPa.

Question 3

Where is सीसा (Lead) used?

Accepted Answer

सीसा (Lead) is commonly used in Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh. It is sourced from Zawar mines, Rajasthan, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh.

Question 4

How is सीसा (Lead) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

सीसा (Lead) is used for Waterproofing, Sealing joints, Pipework, Alloy component in bell metal, Roofing in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for सीसा (Lead)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of सीसा (Lead) requires attention to Toxic and Corrosion in acidic environments. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	सीसा (Lead) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Sīsā Lead 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	सीसा (Sīsā), also known as शीशा (Śīśā), नाग (Nāga), or नागधातु (Nāgadhātu) in Sanskrit, and locally as ஈயம் (Īyam), సీసం (Sīsaṁ), ಸೀಸ (Sīsa), or ഈയം (Īyaṁ), is a soft, dense metal (density: 11.34 g/cm³) with a low melting point (327.5 °C) [1]. Historically sourced from mines in Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh, lead served critical functions in Indic architecture, particularly during the Medieval and Maratha periods. Its malleability facilitated its use in sealing joints and waterproofing roofs, evidenced in structures from these eras [2]. Lead's low tensile strength (12-17 MPa) and high thermal expansion coefficient (29 x 10⁻⁶ /°C) necessitate careful consideration in its application. Traditional processing involved smelting galena (PbS), the primary lead ore. Lead was also a component in bell metal alloys. Conservation requires addressing corrosion and potential lead leaching. Restoration efforts at heritage sites must prioritize safe handling and appropriate replacement materials [3]. The Maratha Dynasty utilized lead extensively.
Also Known As	Lead Sīsā Lead Pb Plumbum सीसा शीशा नाग नागधातु ஈயம் (Īyam) సీసం (Sīsaṁ) ಸೀಸ (Sīsa) ഈയം (Īyaṁ)
Tags	Lead Metal Rajasthan Andhra Pradesh Waterproofing Alloy
Material ID	`INHFMAT-973853024-20-11-25-SA`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/lead
API Endpoint	`https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/lead`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	1
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	Medieval Period Maratha Period
Dynasties	Maratha Dynasty

सीसा (Lead)

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Heritage Sites (1)

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