Reviving Tradition with a Modern Twist

Reviving Tradition with a Modern Twist: Introducing Our Hand-Painted Steel Collection

At Ziyada, we’re passionate about bringing you beautiful, handmade items that not only enhance your daily life but also tell a story. Our latest collection of hand-painted steel cups, bowls, lunch boxes, and canisters is a perfect example of this mission. This collection represents a unique blend of tradition and modernity, brought to life by a talented group of Kashmiri artisans.

The Art of Kashmiri Enameling

Kashmiri enamelware has a rich history, traditionally created on silver and copper vessels or papier-mache. The intricate designs and vibrant colors are the hallmarks of this art form, passed down through generations. However, as mass production became the norm, the demand for these handcrafted pieces declined. The cost of producing handmade goods was high, and many artisans left the industry in search of more stable work. Yet, a few dedicated artisans continued to carry the torch, finding new ways to adapt their craft to a changing world.

A Partnership Rooted in Tradition and Innovation

We connected with a remarkable collective of Kashmiri artisans who are not only masters of their craft but are also committed to uplifting their communities, particularly women. This fair trade collective was the perfect partner for us as we embarked on this journey to bring you a collection that stays true to the essence of Kashmiri enameling while making it accessible for everyday use.

Together, we carefully selected colors and traditional motifs that reflect the rich heritage of this art form. By painting on steel instead of the more traditional silver or copper, these artisans have created durable, affordable, and functional pieces that fit seamlessly into modern life.

Why We Love This Collection

1. Durability Meets Practicality: One of the things I love most about these items is how durable and easy to care for they are. With three small children at home, I don’t have to worry about anything breaking, whether we’re using these dishes out in the backyard or around the house. The Bento boxes, in particular, are a favorite—they’re perfect for packing a variety of foods without any risk of them getting mushed together.

2. Joyful Artistry: The colors and artistry of this collection are simply joyful. These pieces are a burst of happiness in our daily routine. I’ve actually used this style of steel cup in my home in India for the last 10 years. Because of the weight of steel, we couldn’t bring them with us when we moved across the ocean to the US this April. But, now, I have a whole cabinet full of Ziyada’s steel cups and bowls in my kitchen in America. Every time I use them, I feel connected to the people and home we loved in India!

3. Supporting Artisans and Preserving a Craft: Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of this collection is knowing that it helps keep the Kashmiri enameling tradition alive. By supporting this craft, we’re also supporting the artisans across Northern India who rely on this work to sustain their families and communities.

Bringing Tradition to Your Table

Our new hand-painted steel collection is more than just beautiful decor—it’s a way to connect with a centuries-old tradition and support a community of artisans who are keeping that tradition alive. We hope these pieces bring as much joy to your home as they have to ours.

Explore the collection and bring a touch of Kashmiri artistry to your everyday life.

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