Brass Art and craftsmanship

“Brass décor seamlessly blends conventional artistry with timeless design that adds a warm touch to any space.” Brass is an alloy composed of copper and zinc, known for its golden lustre, stunning patterns, and exquisite craftsmanship. Brass is a durable metal, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from home décor to artistic sculptures, ceremonial objects, and religious artefacts. Brass art is an elegant and timeless craft that has been a part of Indian culture for a long time. In today’s time, Brass is used to make home décor products, cookware, jewellery, musical instruments, etc. Moradabad brassware got the GI tag in 2013 from the government.

History

Brass craft was introduced in India by the Mughals in the 16th century, thus having a history of approximately 500 years. Brass flourished in the 18th century, during the period of British East India Company rule. Nawab Murad Ali encouraged local artisans to create authentic, handcrafted Brass decor. Currently, Brass art is thriving in the Moradabad cluster, which comprises 4,000 metal businesses that employ 100,000 workers.

In ancient civilisations, Brass artefacts have been found in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley civilisation. The Romans used Brass for jewellery, armour, and vessels because it was malleable and allowed embossing on the surface. Brass was used to make decorative religious artefacts, musical instruments, household items and monumental brasses.

Craftsmanship and Technique

Brass art production encompasses a variety of techniques from shaping to decorating and finishing items. The process includes casting, hammering, embossing and engraving. These techniques are used to produce functional and decorative objects such as household items and intricate jewellery.

• Casting – Initially, molten brass is poured into a mould to create desired forms and shapes. This process is used to develop complex and detailed brass products. 
• Hammering and embossing – Skilled artists use a hammer to create patterns, designs and textures on the surface, giving it an exquisite look. 
• Engraving – The artist uses specialised tools to carve motifs and designs into the product surface, which lends the product aesthetic appeal.

Types of Brass products-

Decorative Products– Brass is well-suited for creating sculptures and figurines, adding an elegant touch to offices and homes. It can also be used to make wall hangings, panels and even plates with intricate patterns and designs. In home décor, Brass is commonly used to make vases, bowls, trays, and candle holders, which add sophistication and warmth to your interiors. It has also been used in creating functional items such as doorknobs, railings, and handles, which offer both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Brass serving plate has also been traditionally used in religious ceremonies which symbolize cultural heritage and reverence.

Spiritual Products – Brass is used in crafting idols of deities, which are used in temples and even at home altars. It is also used to create sacred items such as bells, offering plates, and lamps, for rituals and ceremonies. According to Vastu, Brass pooja items attract positive energy and bring growth, prosperity and spiritual harmony.

Functional Products – Brass is also used in the crafting of functional items across various domains. For example, in pooja items, it is used to make a Diya, a Pooja thali, and a Bell. In the Kitchen, Brass is used to make pans and pots, which are known for even heat distribution and durability. In hardware, it is used to make hinges, fasteners, and screws which are valued for its strength and corrosion resistance.

Production Hubs

Brass has two major production hubs in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It has become a centre of excellence, attracting skilled artisans and manufacturers due to its rich cultural heritage and strong infrastructure.

• Moradabad – Moradabad is known as Petal Nagri, renowned for intricate detailing and engraving on brassware. It blends conventional artistry with modern design, making it an export hub for Brass items, such as lamps, vases, sculptures, and trays. Moradabad brassware is celebrated for its traditional Mughal artistry combined with modern design, which has established the city as a leading presence in the global market, particularly in the Middle East and Europe.
• Aligarh – Aligarh is known for the production of functional and industrial Brassware. Aligarh is known for locks, hinges, architectural fittings, latches and door handles. Aligarh products have a focus on functionality and durability, making them primarily used in commercial and residential construction. This city is home to various enterprises that specialise in metalworking and supply, operating in both India and the foreign market.

Reason for choosing Brass Craft for your home

• Aesthetic appeal – Brass has a rich golden tone and a welcoming vibe. Brass is a versatile material that allows for intricate designs, making it an ideal choice for creating idols, wall hangings, vases, and showpieces.
• Durability – Brass products are strong and corrosion-free, making them long-lasting. These products can be used daily, even in moist and pressurised environments, making them suitable for both functional and decorative purposes. 
• Cultural significance – Brass products are associated with prosperity and auspiciousness, making them an ideal choice for festive occasions. These are used as decorative items during the Diwali celebration for rituals and religious ceremonies.
• Health benefits – Brass utensils are beneficial for health, as they help boost immunity and aid digestion. They help retain nutrients in food, so people prefer to cook and store food in Brass products.
• Gifting – Brass is a perfect product for housewarmings, weddings, anniversaries, and other special occasions. Brass product has an elegant finish and traditional appeal, which carries both cultural and emotional value for the people.

Explore the Natriel Brass products

Natriel offers an exclusive range of Brass products, featuring both decorative and functional items. Traditional brass handicraft products are of high quality, sourced exclusively from the Moradabad and Aligarh clusters. It features conventional products with a unique, innovative design.

• Kalpavriksha tree – Natriel offers Brass Kalpavriksha tree in different forms and sizes. It has a golden finish and is exquisitely carved with actual leaves and a tree trunk. It is a symbol of prosperity and abundance, making it a thoughtful gift for your loved ones. 
• Tortoise – Natriel offers a wide variety of intricately carved brass tortoises. According to Vastu, they are considered bringers of good luck and prosperity. These tortoises would make a great addition to home décor or even make ideal gifts. 
• Kamdhenu Cow and Calf – The Kamdhenu cow is a timeless piece that captures the bond between a cow and its calf. This brass figurine features ornate engraving and a traditional pattern on the product. This product is ideal for the pooja room or the living room. It is considered an excellent gift for your loved ones. 
• Coffee filter and Dabara set – This coffee filter is ideal for coffee lovers and comes with a Dabara set. A coffee filter made with Brass retains heat for a long time, which helps enhance the coffee flavour. It is exquisitely carved by skilled artisans, giving it a captivating design and texture. 
• Dinner set – Natriel has an exclusive dinner set crafted from brass, which includes a plate, glass, bowl, and spoon. It is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans, featuring intricate detailing on its surface. It is perfect for dining on both daily and special occasions, providing a luxurious experience.

Explore Natriel's exclusive collection of Brass products here.