Echoes in Metal: Rediscovering Kashmir’s Heritage of Coppersmith Craft
Nestled in the heart of Palpora lies a hidden treasure—the remarkable craftsmanship of its residents, a skill now passed down through both men and women alike. With dexterous hands, they shape copper into beautiful, intricate works of art that reflect a blend of creativity, resilience, and aspiration. This thriving coppersmith community has transformed Palpora into a vibrant hub of artistry, where a deeply rooted tradition comes alive with every piece crafted. For decades, copper utensils have held a significant place in Kashmiri culture, especially as cherished gifts for joyful occasions. Among these, marriage ceremonies stand out, where the bride traditionally presents copper utensils to her new family, symbolizing goodwill, respect, and the strength of family bonds. Copper, valued for its durability, represents the lasting foundation of a newly formed family.
This custom of gifting copper extends beyond weddings to other celebrations, strengthening connections and enriching relationships within the Kashmiri community. The artisans have honed their skills over generations, crafting a variety of traditional items, each serving a unique purpose in daily life—from the Lota (pot) and Tream (plate) to the Naer (water jug), Tash Naer (portable handwash), and the iconic Samovar. These copper creations carry forward Kashmir’s rich cultural legacy, adding warmth and meaning to life’s most special moments.
Copperplate decorated with floral motifs; (Image Courtesy: Gaatha)
Roots of Radiance: The Origin of Kashmir’s Coppersmith Craft
The history of Kashmir’s coppersmith craft finds its roots in cultural exchanges and royal patronage dating back centuries. The legacy begins with the arrival of Mir Syed Ali Hamdani, a revered Sufi saint and Islamic scholar from Central Asia, who journeyed to Kashmir with a mission to uplift the local population. Deeply moved by the region’s beauty yet troubled by its poverty, Hamdani envisioned a way to empower the people. He brought with him over 700 artisans from Iran, including skilled craftsmen from Persia and Central Asia, to train Kashmiris in various trades, including the art of copperwork. This influx of expertise laid a strong foundation for Kashmir’s artistic heritage and elevated copper as a favored medium among locals.
However, it was under the rule of Sultan Zain-ul-Abideen, also known as Budshah, that Kashmiri copper craft truly flourished. Zain-ul-Abideen became an active patron of the arts, providing the resources and support necessary to nurture these skills among his people. His reign is remembered as a pivotal era for cultural and artistic prosperity, where Kashmir’s traditional crafts gained royal endorsement and national prominence. This support helped establish Kashmir as a vibrant center for copper artistry.
The artistic heritage of Kashmir stretches even further back to the 8th century, a golden era under King Lalitaditya, a prominent ruler of the 8th century. Lalitaditya’s conquests spanned North India, Central Asia, and Tibet, bringing Kashmir to an era of remarkable prosperity. His patronage supported the creation of brass, gold, and silver artifacts, and the temples and monasteries from his time housed monumental statues showcasing Kashmiri artisans’ unparalleled skill. Kahlana Pandita wrote this illustrious history in the 11th century through his famous work, Rajatarangini, highlighting Lalitaditya’s influence on Kashmir’s artistic and cultural heritage.
Hammering of copper plate; (Image Courtesy: Kashmir Observer)
Kashmiri artisans became widely celebrated for their mastery of painting and detailed craftsmanship, particularly in bronze and metalwork, which gained renown across regions from Central Asia to Persia. By the 14th century, Persian artisans, equipped with refined techniques and distinctive styles, further enriched Kashmir’s crafts. This era of cultural and artistic exchange fostered the region’s identity as a center of exceptional craftsmanship with a broad global influence.
Through time, the patronage of Kashmir’s rulers, combined with the expertise of Persian artisans, allowed its crafts—particularly the coppersmith trade—to thrive. The princely support encouraged the growth of these lightweight yet artistically elaborate products, helping preserve the craft’s legacy and securing its prominence in both local and international markets.
Forged in Tradition: The Flourishing Legacy of Kashmir’s Coppersmith Craft
The craft of copperware has been intricately woven into Kashmiri culture for centuries. Historians trace the origins of this art to artisans and traders from Iran and Iraq, who introduced it over seven hundred years ago. Its popularity soared with the arrival of the Persian scholar, Mir Sayyid Ali Hamdani, who recognized its potential and brought skilled craftsmen from Central Asia to train the locals in copperwork. Under his influence, the seeds of copper craftsmanship were firmly planted in Kashmir.
This art blossomed further during the reign of Sultan Zain-ul-Abideen, affectionately known as Budshah. He championed the growth of copperware, and his patronage elevated the craft to new heights. During the Mughal era, Kashmiri metalwork diversified, focusing on creating gun barrels, swords, and their decorative handles. Techniques like iron casting, forging, and the intricate enameling known as Meenakari became prominent, particularly in embellishing sword handles. By the late 19th century, as the Mughal influence waned, Kashmiri artisans shifted their skills back to copperware, now adding the Meenakari technique to silver jewelry, brass, and copper utensils.
Different types of copper utensils; (Image Courtesy:Kashmir Online)
Today, Kashmiri copperware—both functional and ornamental—continues to be cherished in everyday life and grand celebrations. Elegant copper utensils are central to traditional Kashmiri weddings and gatherings, with items like Taesh Naer (portable handwash), Tream (round copper platter), and the iconic Samovar (charcoal-heated tea urn) widely used. The bustling markets of Shehr-e-Khaas in Downtown Srinagar, especially Zaina Kadal, have preserved this artistry since the 19th century. Here, beautiful copper samovars, cups, glasses, tasht naaris, traamis, jugs, bowls, trays, and deghs (rounded cooking pots) showcase the enduring elegance of this craft. While ornamental pieces retain their natural coppery hue, everyday utensils are polished with a gleaming layer of Tin (Kalai Karyen), adding a final touch of beauty and functionality to this timeless Kashmiri art.
Intricate Elegance: The Fine Details of Kashmir’s Coppersmith Craft
Copper utensils have long held a place of honor in Indian kitchens, valued for both their cultural significance and practical advantages. Known for their health benefits, copper’s antimicrobial properties are believed to reduce harmful bacteria, promoting a cleaner kitchen environment. According to Ayurveda, the ancient Indian health tradition, copper (referred to as “Tamba”) offers various health benefits. Storing and drinking water from copper vessels is thought to balance the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—supporting holistic well-being. Additionally, copper is associated with improved digestion, making it ideal for cooking, serving, and storing water, where practical health benefits meet cultural heritage in many Indian households.
In Kashmiri culture, specific copper items carry unique significance. The Izband soz ritual, for instance, is believed to protect against the evil eye and negative energies. During this ceremony, Harmala seeds are burned, and their aromatic smoke is spread to ward off ill will. As a Kashmiri bride departs from her parent’s home, she is traditionally accompanied by the Izband soz, bringing blessings for her new journey.
The Tast-t-Naari, a paired set of water vessels, is passed around during weddings, allowing guests to wash their hands before and after meals. Another significant item is the Traami, a large, round dish that serves four people gathered to eat together, symbolizing unity. This dish is covered with a conical sarposh lid before the meal, and during Kashmiri wedding feasts, all guests eat simultaneously in a tradition of communal celebration.
Tool used for coppersmithing; (Image Courtesy: Kashmir Observer)
Copper plays an important role in both Hindu and Muslim traditions across India. Many religious objects, such as puja lotas, aachmanis (spoons), and tarbanas (plates), are crafted from copper. In the Himalayan Shiva temples, for instance, the snake coiled atop the linga is often made of copper. In Kashmiri Muslim culture, copper vessels—such as samovars (teapots), serving spoons, and cups—hold historical importance, a practice introduced by Persian artisans during the 14th-century rule of Sultan Zain-ul-Abedin. Their artistry in copper left an indelible mark on Kashmiri metalwork, merging Persian influence with local craftsmanship.
Over centuries, copper has become deeply embedded in Kashmir’s cultural and artistic identity. Beyond its functional value, copperwork often takes on a spiritual dimension, with skilled engravers occasionally adorning platters and bowls with Urdu script, including religious verses or thoughtful sayings. This blending of practicality and artistry makes copper a symbol of Kashmir’s rich heritage and a reflection of the region’s enduring cultural exchange and tradition.
The transformation of raw copper into beautifully decorated utensils is a meticulous process involving multiple skilled artisans and stages. Initially, copper wires and sheets sourced from outside Kashmir are melted down and shaped into various forms. Artisans specializing in creating circular, sturdy components like handles, stands, and borders for items such as Samovars and Tasht Naer are known as Barak Saaz.
Next, the semi-finished item is handed to a Chargar, who carefully smooths and refines the surface. After this, it moves to the Naqashqar, an artisan who engraves intricate traditional designs onto the polished metal. The final stage is carried out by the Kalai Saaz, who applies a lead polish to give the utensil a silvery finish.
In the old city’s SR Ganj area, numerous shops proudly display these beautifully decorated copper pieces, often made by artisans who have inherited the craft from their ancestors, keeping a rich tradition alive through generations.
Patterns of Heritage: Designs, Motifs, and Symbols in Kashmiri Coppersmith Art
The design of Kashmiri copper objects is defined by three main elements: functionality, form, and decorative carvings. Each object’s unique form has evolved to serve specific purposes, shaped by the demands of its environment. While some aspects mirror ancient Indian designs, such as those found at Harappan sites, Kashmiri artisans have expanded these forms, adding functional details like decorative stands and handles for enhanced utility and beauty.
The decorative carvings on copperware reflect Kashmiri’s visual aesthetics, transforming each piece into a work of art. Although this intricate detailing raises production costs, making such items more accessible to the wealthy, artisans meticulously plan geometric sections, filling them with repeating patterns inspired by local architecture, flora, and fauna.
The engraved designs (kandkari) on the copper utensils; (Image Courtesy: India Today)
In keeping with Islamic art traditions, the avoidance of human representations has led to a rich development of calligraphy, especially in regions like Kashmir where Islamic influence is prominent. Although Kashmiri is the primary language, artisans often incorporate Arabic script into their designs. Arabic calligraphy, known for its aesthetic and spiritual significance, draws from Islamic literature and Quranic verses, adding a profound cultural dimension to copperwork, pottery, textiles, and architecture. This fusion highlights a historical connection to broader Islamic art traditions, showcasing Arabic script as a visual and cultural emblem within Kashmiri art.
Several motifs stand out in Kashmiri copperware, each adding a unique beauty to the finished product. Common designs include the badam (almond) and the chinar leaf, reminiscent of a maple leaf, symbolizing Kashmir’s natural splendor. Another frequently used motif is the mehrab, an arch-shaped design that echoes elements of Islamic art and architecture, adding cultural depth to copperware.
Designs handmade by artisans; (Image Courtesy: India Today)
Whether drawn from nature or architecture, these motifs contribute to the aesthetic allure of Kashmiri copperware. Each pattern, engraved by skilled hands, reveals the artisans’ mastery, blending tradition with artistic creativity. Through their choice of motifs, artisans ensure that each piece of copperware is not only a functional object but also a testament to Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage and enduring artistic legacy.
Kashmiri Coppersmith Craft: Reverberating Through Contemporary Culture and Pop Icons
The coppersmith craft of Kashmir, with its intricate designs and centuries-old techniques, has a rich presence in both popular culture and the contemporary world. Rooted in history and shaped by Persian and Central Asian influences, Kashmiri copperware has long been celebrated not only as a symbol of cultural heritage but also as a work of art. Today, this unique craft has found renewed appreciation, bridging tradition with modern aesthetics in popular culture, interior design, and global marketplaces.
In popular culture, Kashmiri copperware frequently appears in Bollywood films, television shows, and travel media, symbolizing a connection to traditional Indian craftsmanship and the beauty of Kashmiri artistry. Samovars, traditionally used for brewing tea, often feature in movies as decorative elements or as symbols of Kashmiri warmth and hospitality, helping audiences connect with the region’s unique identity. This visibility has sparked curiosity and admiration for Kashmiri copperware among a wider audience, bringing it into modern homes and cultural narratives worldwide.
In contemporary design, Kashmiri copper items like vases, trays, and lamps have been embraced for their ornate beauty and intricate craftsmanship. Interior designers and home decor enthusiasts incorporate these pieces into eclectic and fusion styles, where traditional and modern elements converge. In particular, the warm hues and timeless patterns of Kashmiri copper items add a rustic yet refined touch to contemporary spaces, making them popular in restaurants, luxury hotels, and upscale home settings. This fusion of modern aesthetics with age-old craftsmanship exemplifies how traditional Kashmiri copperware remains relevant in today’s design world.
Beyond decor, the craft has also gained global recognition through e-commerce and online artisan marketplaces, which connect Kashmiri coppersmiths directly with international customers. This access has introduced Kashmiri copperware to audiences in Europe, North America, and beyond, sparking a revival in appreciation for handcrafted, culturally rooted products. Kashmiri artisans now adapt their traditional motifs and patterns to create products that cater to contemporary tastes, such as minimalist designs and functional items suited to modern lifestyles.
Furthermore, with the rise in popularity of artisanal and sustainable products, Kashmiri copperware aligns with a global trend favoring ethically sourced and handcrafted goods. Artisans and cooperatives are now collaborating with designers to reimagine traditional copper items for modern contexts, bringing together the timeless beauty of the craft with contemporary functionality. This growing demand for authenticity and heritage in the global market has not only helped preserve the coppersmith craft of Kashmir but has also supported local artisans in sustaining their livelihoods.
In this way, Kashmiri copperware has evolved from a regional tradition to an internationally admired art form. Whether as decor, symbolic cultural items, or functional household objects, the presence of Kashmiri copperware in popular culture and contemporary settings is a testament to the lasting appeal of this remarkable craft.
Enduring Craft: The Present Struggles and Resilience of Kashmiri Coppersmithing
The challenges facing the coppersmith craft in Kashmir require a collective effort from artisans, government bodies, non-profit organizations, and the broader community to ensure the sustainability and continued vitality of this age-old tradition.
Market Trends and Globalization: Shifting consumer preferences and the influence of global market trends have affected the demand for traditional copper products. Mass-produced, cheaper alternatives often overshadow handcrafted copperware, presenting a challenge for artisans trying to maintain their market presence.
Skill Preservation and Succession: The transfer of traditional skills to younger generations is vital for the survival of this craft. However, the younger generation is increasingly disinterested in pursuing the craft, raising concerns about the continuity of these artisanal skills and the future of the trade.
Marketing and Access to Markets: Artisans often struggle to market their products effectively and access broader markets. Limited exposure and difficulty in reaching potential customers can restrict the growth and profitability of their businesses.
Competition from Machine-Made Mass Production: Handmade copper items face intense competition from mass-produced goods that are more affordable, making it difficult for artisans to compete on price while preserving the quality and uniqueness of their products.
A Kashmiri Coppersmith in his workshop; (Image Courtesy: The Hindu)
Lack of Financial Support: Many artisans face challenges in accessing financial resources to invest in their businesses, adopt new techniques, or expand their operations. This lack of financial backing hampers their ability to innovate and grow.
To ensure the craft’s survival, there is a pressing need for design innovation, material quality control, and branding. In response to these challenges, the J&K Prohibition on Manufacture of Specified Utensils (by Machine) Act 2006 was enacted to protect the handmade copperware tradition. However, despite the legislation, its enforcement has been weak, failing to provide substantial protection for artisans.
There are differing opinions within the copperware community regarding the role of machines. While some argue that machines are undermining traditional livelihoods, others contend that they are necessary to meet the growing demand for copper products. According to a report by Excelsior, Tariq Ahmad Kawa, a craftsman from Downtown Srinagar, expressed concern over the diminishing interest in the craft among younger generations. He noted that the 2006 act, which was intended to protect the craft from machine-made production, has not been effectively implemented.
Despite the cultural significance of copperware, particularly in traditional Kashmiri weddings, the craft is slowly being replaced by modern alternatives like chinaware and buffets. However, there is hope that the timeless appeal of Kashmiri copperware will continue to attract admirers across generations.
While the J&K Prohibition on Manufacture of Specified Copper Utensils (by Machine) Act 2006 aimed to protect the interests of copper craftsmen, its poor implementation has failed to safeguard the livelihoods of approximately 28,000 artisans working in around 6,000 registered units across the valley. As a result, the future of Kashmir’s copperware craft remains uncertain, requiring stronger support and enforcement to preserve its legacy.
