Craft Name: Moradabad Brass
Region: Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh
CRAFT
HISTORY
Moradabad emerged as a major brass-working centre in the late 17th century during the Mughal era, when skilled artisans began producing metalware for royal households. Over time, the city became famous as “Pital Nagri” (The Brass City) due to its dense network of Brass Craftmanship.
WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE:
- Moradabad exports brassware to more than 100 countries and contributes nearly 40% of India’s total brass handicraft exports
- 5–7 specialised artisans contribute across different stages depending on size and complexity

Received a GI tag in 2023
COLOURS
- Natural warm golden-yellow brass tone
- Lacquer-filled engravings in vibrant colours (reds, greens, blues, etc.)
MOTIFS
- Nature-inspired themes: trees, flowers, birds, animals
- Geometric patterns influenced by Mughal architecture
- Persian and Turkish ornamental aesthetics
RAW MATERIAL
- Brass (alloy of copper + zinc)
- Lacquer for colouring engraved areas
- Enamel, lac colours
- Metal scraps for melting and recycling
CRAFT MAKING PROCESS
HOW TO IDENTIFY GENUINE & AUTHENTIC CRAFT
- Magnet Test: Brass is non-magnetic. If it sticks to a magnet, it may contain steel.
- Corrosion Check: Brass resists rust. Rust spots indicate imitation metal.
- Weight: Authentic brass is heavy and substantial.
- Colour: Rich golden-yellow tone of real brass.