Currently 10 Available

$27.00

Kushal’s hand-hammered copper is fair-trade
certified.

Blacksmiths have been skilled tradesmen throughout
generations,
but they are also at a disadvantage in society because
they are
typically landless and lower caste. As low-caste individuals,
they are
restricted from using common water taps and are not even
allowed into
some temples.

In addition, the market for
utensils, storage
containers, etc. is saturated with both hand-made
copper and
mass-produced stainless steel wares. Blacksmiths are unable
to earn
enough to support their families.

Bir Bahadur
Bishwakarma, a
blacksmith from Palpa region, went to Kathmandu for
additional training
in metal work and then approached a non-profit for
collaboration on new
products. Since 1986, the partnership between
village artisans and the
Kathmandu organization has been training
village blacksmiths to produce
artful vases and bowls in contemporary
designs and finishing. In the
process, a valuable traditional skill
has been rejuvenated as market
demand increases.

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