Why Old Brass Is New Again
In the world of interior design, what’s old often becomes new again, and right now, heavy brass vessels are having a major moment. These aren't the shiny, mass-produced items you find in every store. We're talking about the weighty, character-filled urlis,
parats, gangaals, and pots that once served functional purposes in Indian kitchens and puja rooms. Today, they are being rediscovered and repurposed as stunning decorative pieces. The appeal is multi-layered: it’s a nod to sustainability, a celebration of heritage, and an appreciation for the unique patina and history that only time can create. In an age of fast furniture, these upcycled vessels offer something deeply personal and timeless. They bring a story and a sense of grounding to modern living spaces, creating a beautiful contrast against minimalist or contemporary decor.
The Hunt for Hidden Treasure
Finding the perfect brass vessel is part of the fun. The first and best place to look is often within your own family. Check your ancestral home, storerooms, or ask older relatives about pieces they may have tucked away. These come with priceless sentimental value. Beyond that, flea markets and old city bazaars are your best bet. Think Chor Bazaar in Mumbai, Chandni Chowk in Delhi, or the antique markets in any historic town. Here, you can haggle and find unique pieces with incredible character. Don't be deterred by dirt or tarnish—that’s just a sign of authenticity. Online platforms and thrift stores on Instagram have also become popular hunting grounds, where sellers often curate and list vintage brassware. Just be sure to check the weight and details to ensure you’re getting genuine old brass, not a lightweight modern replica.
Cleaning and Prepping Your Find
Once you've found your treasure, it needs a bit of care before it’s ready for display. The goal is to clean it without stripping away its aged character. For a gentle clean, a paste of tamarind pulp and salt is a traditional and highly effective method. Apply the paste, let it sit for about 15-20 minutes, and then scrub gently with a soft brush or coconut coir. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a soft cloth to prevent water spots. For a quicker polish, a mixture of vinegar, salt, and flour works well. If you prefer a brighter shine, commercial brass polishes like Brasso can be used, but apply sparingly to maintain some of the natural patina that gives the vessel its charm. Always test your cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area first.
DIY Idea: The Classic Urli Flower Bowl
The most popular way to upcycle a brass urli is to turn it into a floating flower bowl. This simple DIY creates an instant, elegant centrepiece for a coffee table, console, or entryway. Fill the urli with water, leaving about an inch from the rim. Then, simply float fresh flowers on the surface. Marigolds, jasmine, roses, and water lilies are classic choices. For a more modern look, use single, large blooms like gerbera daisies or peonies. You can also add floating tea-light candles in the evening for a warm, inviting glow. The reflection of the light on the brass and water creates a magical ambience.
DIY Idea: The Statement Planter
Larger brass vessels, like old pots or gangaals, make for stunning and unconventional planters. Their sturdiness and size are perfect for housing indoor plants. Since most old vessels don't have drainage holes (and you may not want to drill into a valuable heirloom), there's a simple trick. Keep your plant in its original plastic pot with drainage holes. Place a small dish inside the brass vessel to catch excess water, and then simply slip the plastic pot inside. This 'pot-in-a-pot' method protects both your plant and your brass vessel. The warm glow of the brass pairs beautifully with the lush green foliage of plants like snake plants, ZZ plants, or monsteras, creating a sophisticated, earthy look.
DIY Idea: The Eclectic Side Table
A large, flat-bottomed brass parat (a wide platter traditionally used for kneading dough) can be transformed into a unique tray or even a small tabletop. For a simple coffee table tray, just place it on an ottoman or a low stool. You can style it with books, a small vase, and coasters. For a more permanent fixture, you can commission a simple wooden or metal base and affix the parat on top to create a one-of-a-kind side table. The slightly raised edges of the parat make it a practical surface, preventing items from rolling off. This works especially well in a living room corner, beside a favourite armchair, adding a touch of artisanal flair.
