History backs it, that the Sufi Saint and an Islamic scholar, Mir Syed Ali Hamdani ,who travelled from Central Asia was instrumental in making copper popular among natives.He brought craftsmen from central Asia (especially from Persia and Iran ) to train locals.however during the reign of Budshah Zain ul Abideen ,this craft received good support and Zain ul Abideen became the active catalyst and pioneer to restore the grandeur of Kashmir ….

Process Of Making Of Copperware

Copper ware requires ample amount of time and labour and making process is slow and difficult .

The process of making of a copper or brassware goes through many Hands (artisans) which are specialized in a particular technique. The process involves “Khar” (Local name ) – the smith, Naqash – the engraver, Zarcod – the gilder, Roshangar – the polisher and Charakgar – the cleaner or finisher. In past there were special localities or Mohallas like Roshangar-Mohalla were named after these professions,(however now the tale is totally different) , where these artisans were carrying out their craft practice.

Some of the tools used in the process of making a copperware are , Draz (Local name) – hammer, Mekh -stakes, Yandrewah – anvil, Compass ,chisels, punches, files etc.

The beautiful shops of household utility and decorative copperware items in Shehr-e-Khaas ,downtown area of Srinagar city has been the hub of copper ware since the 19th century, the old markets of Zaina Kadal, SR Gunj ,MR Gunj … still carrying this glorious art. Large beautiful copper samovars, cups, glasses, tasht naari’s, traami’s, jugs, bowls, trays, vases ,vessels ,water bottles ,table Lamps ,pendant Lamps etc are gracefully found in the beautiful shops even today.The old city is full of shops where craftsman (Naqash) are often seen engraving copper items .