The Silver Pot: Hand Made Silverware

Art Issue 64 Jul, 2010
Text by Dinesh Rai

The silver teapot caught my eye. The intricate patterns are so fascinating that they could not have been designed in a few days or even weeks. In fact, they have developed over years and years of designing silverware. “It’s a traditional design and was made by Amir Shakya from Patan,” says Nabin Shrestha of Hand Made Silver Crafts, a shop in Thamel. Patan is the artistic capital of Nepal and most of the quality products especially in metal come from there. “We deal entirely in silver craft, making bangles, earrings, pendants, teapots, wine holders, statues, etc. The bracelets, pendants and earrings are inlaid with semi-precious stones like turquoise, lapis lazuli, coral, etc.,” informs Shrestha.

The teapot was made recently. “They are bought mostly by Americans, Germans and other Europeans. They associate with Tibetans and learn a lot about these handicrafts. Then they come around looking for such products because they know their value,” explains Nabin. Amir Shakya specializes in making such products as teapots and pots to hold wine. This teapot is made of 92.5 % pure silver and it usually takes him three weeks to complete one. He is constantly at it otherwise it would take him much longer. It is entirely made by one person and hence has his personal characteristics.

Hand Made Silver Crafts has many more beautiful pieces made of silver, which are also displayed in their other outlet in Jyatha. “Most of our clients come in person, buy what they want, and cargo the goods themselves, so we don’t really export them ourselves,” claims Nabin.

For details: Hand Made Silver Crafts, Thamel: 4250749/Jyatha: 4424620
Email: silvercraftnepalese78@hotmail.com

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