Brass Handicrafts Made by a Renowned Artisan from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh

These brass handicrafts like bowls, platters, wall plates, and coasters are made by a renowned artisan from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh. The artisan belongs to a very poor family. The artisan had to give up his studies and started working very early with his father to support his family financially. His father worked in a factory in which he used to do electroplating of brass utensils as well as handicrafts.

The craftsman learned the skill of electroplating from his father. In 1960, he learned the art of engraving from his mentor Mr. Maqbool Hussain. Then to improve his skills he worked at District Industries Centre, Moradabad from 1961 to 62 under Mr. Amar Singh. Mr. Amar Singh himself was a famous craftsman of that time. In 1963, he started brass engraving work in collaboration with Mr. Amar Singh. Under the guidance of Mr. Amar Singh, he did the work of engraving for 10 years and thus attained perfection in brass engraving.

Presently, the artisan has an experience of more than 55 years and is an expert in Brass Engraving.

There are many steps involved in the manufacturing of brass handicrafts. Firstly, a drawing of the required product is made on paper. Then a masterpiece is made from wood. After that, using the masterpiece, the product is molded into brass. This process is called Dhalai in the local language. Then the surface of the object is made smooth using a grinder. The process of re-molding is done to obtain the required number of products. Once a product is received, a design is made on it for engraving using a simple lead pencil. Then the engraving is done on the product according to the design made on it using simple tools. After that, the product is cleaned to remove all the excess brass pieces stuck in the design during engraving.

Engraved brass products are either electroplated using gold/silver or colored using lac colors. Finally, colored and gold/silver finished products are polished.

These products are non-toxic and can be used for both eating and serving. The beauty of these products also enhances the decor of your home and office. These products are always the first choice for gifting on various occasions.

The products made by the artisan have been displayed in many exhibitions in India and abroad where these products have been procured in abundance by the local customers and the craftsman’s skill has also been highly appreciated.

The artisan has been honored many times by the Government of India for his brilliant work. He has also been awarded State Award, National Merit Certificate, and Shilp Guru Award by the Government.

Presently, he has trained more than 800 artisans in brass engraving either personally or in various training programs organized by the Government of India. Many of these artisans work closely with the main craftsman in making brass handicrafts as per the requirement.