Living with brass
Understanding the material, appreciating its journey, and keeping your pieces beautiful for years to come.
The Material
What makes brass special—and why we love it.
What is brass?
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, prized for thousands of years for its golden colour and workability. In India, brass (known as 'pital') has been used for religious objects, kitchenware, and decorative items since ancient times. The alloy we use is approximately 70% copper and 30% zinc—a ratio that gives optimal durability and that characteristic warm glow.
Why handcrafted?
Machine-made brass items are uniform but lifeless. Handcrafted pieces carry subtle variations—slight asymmetries, hammer marks, polish gradations—that give each piece its character. Our artisans use techniques passed down through generations: hand-hammering, spinning on traditional lathes, and etching with simple tools. The result is brass that feels alive.
The beauty of patina
New brass gleams golden. Over time, it develops a patina—a darker, more complex surface that many consider more beautiful than the original shine. This isn't damage; it's brass aging naturally, reacting with air and touch. Some prefer to let the patina develop; others polish regularly. Both approaches are valid—it's your piece to live with.
How brass ages
Every piece transforms over time. Here's what to expect.
Fresh & Bright
Golden shine, warm glow, factory-fresh finish
Gentle Warmth
Slight mellowing, touch marks begin to appear
Rich Character
Deeper tones, natural variations, lived-in beauty
Heirloom Patina
Complex surface, unique patterns, family treasure
Care Instructions
Simple steps to keep your brass beautiful.
Daily care
- Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth
- Avoid placing in direct sunlight for extended periods
- Keep away from excessive moisture
- Handle with clean hands (oils can affect the finish)
Cleaning
- For light cleaning, use warm water and mild soap
- Dry immediately with a soft cloth to prevent water spots
- Never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool
- For stubborn marks, a paste of lemon juice and baking soda works well
Polishing
- Use a quality brass polish (Brasso, Weiman, or similar)
- Apply in small circular motions with a soft cloth
- Work in sections for larger pieces
- Buff with a clean cloth for shine
- Consider a light coat of brass lacquer to preserve the polish
Quick Guide
Do
- •Embrace the natural patina—it tells a story
- •Display pieces where you'll enjoy them daily
- •Mix brass with natural materials: wood, linen, stone
- •Rotate pieces occasionally for even patina development
Don't
- •Use harsh chemical cleaners
- •Leave water sitting on brass surfaces
- •Place directly on wood without a protective base
- •Expect perfection—variations are part of the craft
Have questions about care?
We're always happy to help with specific care questions or restoration advice. Reach out anytime.
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