Artisans of Sambhal

"To hold a piece from Sambhal is to feel the heartbeat of Indian craftsmanship, preserved through centuries of devotion and mastery."

Nestled in the historic district of Moradabad, the town of Sambhal pulses with an ageless rhythm, echoing centuries of meticulous craft. Here, each piece fashioned from brass, resin, horn, bone, and mother-of-pearl is a narrative, integrated by artisans whose skill and dedication breathe life into timeless Indian artistry. For generations, these craftsmen have created objects that transcend utility, becoming symbols of heritage and expressions of culture. To hold one of their pieces is to feel the heart of Sambhal—a heritage that refuses to fade.

Crafting Brass: An Ancient Art Form

Sambhal’s artisans are masters of brass work, a tradition refined since the 16th century, when royal patronage encouraged artisans to create pieces of unmatched beauty and detail. Techniques like chasing and repoussé (creating raised designs through meticulous hammering) require profound patience and skill. The artisans craft everything from decorative boxes and trays to intricate furniture accents, each with a level of detail that blurs the line between functionality and art. With every pattern etched, these craftsmen add a new chapter to the story of their land and lineage.

Brass isn’t merely a metal in Sambhal—it’s a medium for storytelling. The artisans painstakingly etch delicate floral motifs and geometric designs that reflect the landscape, spirituality, and enduring cultural influences of the region. Through every line and curve, a piece of India’s soul is etched, connecting past to present.

Resin, Horn, Bone, and Mother of Pearl: The Poetry of Material

Beyond brass, artisans in Sambhal have expanded their expertise to other mediums, with resin, horn, bone, and mother-of-pearl (MOP) bringing a unique dimension to their artistry. Working with resin requires precision and an intuitive feel for material. Artisans pour, mold, and polish resin pieces, transforming them into beautiful yet functional items that cater to modern tastes. Similarly, horn, bone and MOP crafting are intricate arts, requiring artisans to shape, polish, and assemble materials that glisten with natural luster.

Mother-of-pearl, in particular, offers a glimpse into ancient artistry, with patterns and techniques that reflect Persian and Central Asian influences. These artisans arrange delicate layers of shell into designs inspired by nature, myths, and local stories, balancing fragility and resilience to create pieces that shine with a soft, iridescent glow. The result is a remarkable blend of traditional elegance and contemporary appeal; products that transcend boundaries to touch hearts worldwide.

Tradition Meets Modernity

The journey of these artisans is as layered as their work. Despite the challenges of modern competition and the lure of mechanized production, Sambhal’s craftsmen remain steadfast. Their techniques, passed down through generations, are endangered by the demands of the modern world, but these artisans persist, clinging to the hope that their legacy will endure.

Sambhal's artisans now find themselves at a crossroads, balancing tradition with the contemporary demands of a global market. Their resilience is met with an emerging appreciation for artisanal, sustainable goods that value heritage over mass production. In a world searching for authenticity, these artisans offer a rare gift: a glimpse into a legacy that celebrates patience, craft, and cultural connection.

Reviving the Legacy, One Piece at a Time

As the world turns towards faster, more uniform production, Sambhal’s artisans stand as reminders of the beauty in handcrafted imperfection. They face challenges—financial constraints, generational shifts, and market competition—but each piece they create speaks of an enduring pride in their heritage. Every tray, decorative box, picture frame, or napkin ring is an assertion that their craft deserves to survive and thrive.

A New Chapter for Sambhal’s Artisans

Through the initiative of our brand; GAURI KOHLI, Sambhal’s artistry reaches homes far and wide, supporting the livelihood of the artisans who pour their hearts into these creations. By championing their legacy, we ensure that every piece becomes a testament to the timeless spirit of India’s craft, carrying forward the heritage of Sambhal for generations to come.