From Kitchen to Centrepiece
Before they became the darlings of interior design, these brass and bronze vessels were the workhorses of the traditional Indian household. You might even recognise some from your grandparents’ home. The shallow, wide-mouthed ‘urli’, for instance, originates
from Kerala, where it was used for cooking large quantities of food for feasts or for preparing Ayurvedic medicines. Similarly, the ‘charu’, a pot with a narrow neck and wide body, was used for boiling milk or water. And the ‘para’, a cylindrical measuring vessel, was essential for portioning out grains. Each piece tells a story of community, sustenance, and craftsmanship, forged by hand by artisans known as ‘moosaris’. Their transition from the functional kitchen to the aesthetic living room is a testament to their timeless design and enduring appeal.
Why This Trend Is Here to Stay
So, why the sudden obsession? It’s a perfect storm of modern sensibilities. Firstly, there’s the powerful pull of sustainability. In an age of fast furniture and mass-produced decor, upcycling an old brass pot is an eco-conscious choice. It’s about giving a second life to an object that was built to last for generations. Secondly, there’s a growing desire for authenticity and a connection to our roots. These vessels are not just decorative objects; they are tangible links to our past and a celebration of Indian craftsmanship. They bring a warmth, soul, and a uniquely Indian identity to contemporary spaces that can sometimes feel sterile. They stand in beautiful contrast to clean lines and neutral palettes, adding a layer of history and texture that you simply can’t buy off a factory line.
The Styling Hackbook
The beauty of this “hack” lies in its versatility. There’s no single right way to style these vessels, but here are a few ideas to get you started. 1. **The Floating Garden:** This is the most classic use, especially for an urli. Fill it with water and float fresh flowers like marigolds or jasmine, or even just a few rose petals. Add some floating tea-light candles in the evening for an instant festive atmosphere. 2. **The Statement Planter:** A large brass pot makes a stunning planter for indoor plants like a fiddle-leaf fig or a snake plant. The warm glow of the brass beautifully complements the green foliage. Just ensure you place a plastic pot inside, as direct contact with soil and water can sometimes damage the metal over time. 3. **Minimalist Sculpture:** Sometimes, the best way to style a beautiful object is to let it shine on its own. A large, well-proportioned vessel can be a sculptural element by itself. Place it on a low console, a side table, or even on the floor in an empty corner to create a powerful visual focus. 4. **The Chic Catch-all:** Smaller vessels are perfect for organising modern life. Use one near your entryway to hold keys and mail, on your coffee table for remotes, or on a bookshelf as a unique decorative holder.
Where to Find Your Treasure
The most rewarding finds are often heirlooms, so your first stop should be your ancestral home or a conversation with older relatives. You might be surprised what treasures are hiding in plain sight. For those who need to hunt, the search is part of the fun. Explore the winding lanes of your city’s old market or flea market — think Chor Bazaar in Mumbai or Chandni Chowk in Delhi. These places are filled with antique dealers and scrap merchants who often have a stash of old vessels. Look past the grime and dust; a good cleaning and polish can reveal a stunning piece. Alternatively, many contemporary decor brands and online artisans are now creating new brassware inspired by traditional designs, offering a cleaner, more polished look if the antique aesthetic isn’t for you.
