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Hand Hammered Copper Bowls & Boxes
These bowls are frequently used for many purposes, including
in spas for when treatments are done to clients.
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Do I need to polish my copper?
What should I use?
We
recommend that you DON'T polish your copper
pieces. Polishing will diminish the unique heat
patina finish. Fine steel wool or a
coarse-napped terry cloth can be used on the
copper to restore its luster.
Why isn't my copper shiny?
The copper used is crafted using a
centuries-old bonfire method. The copper is
heated in a bonfire and then worked with hammers
to create the designs. The flame, ash and soot
from this process produces this rich chestnut
heat patina finish. By the
way, this bonfire method is chemical-free. No
chemicals are used to achieve the patina.
Where does the copper come from?
The
artisans live and work in the highlands of
Michoacan in Central Mexico. There were copper
mines in the region, but they have been closed
for decades. The copper they use is all
reclaimed scrap copper--very earth-friendly!
Is the copper pure?
The
copper is 99.9% pure.
Are the pieces made from a mold?
No
molds are used. The artists use a pattern and
individually craft each piece by hand, hammered
from a single lump of copper.
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 Made by the Purepecha Indians of Central Mexico since
pre-Columbian times. When the Europeans arrived in the
16th century, they found the Purepecha making domestic
implements and weapons from copper found in local,
above-ground mines. Father Vasco de Quiroga introduced a
few refinements; however, little has changed in how the
copper is worked and finished. Because the copper mines
have long been closed, today the smiths gather and melt
discarded copper for use in their workshops.
During the bonfire method, coppersmiths take the
reclaimed copper and patiently heat and hammer it until
the metal is "raised"--meaning the bowl or vase walls
are formed. The smith then takes a special hammer to
finish the piece. Depending upon the amount of salt in
the air and how often the copper piece is handled, the
metal will oxidize and the finish becomes matte, as the
color darkens to deep browns and reds. The
manufacture is a member of the Fair Trade Federation.
Fair Trade Federation members must:
 | Provide healthy and safe working conditions. |
| Pay a fair wage in the local context. |
| Provide equal opportunities for all people,
particularly the most disadvantaged. |
| Engage in environmentally sustainable
practices. |
| Build long-term trade relationships. |
| Provide financial and technical assistance to
workers whenever possible. |
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