MINAKARI COPPER VASE 22cm
Minakari copper vase, beautifully made by hand, inspired by Persian art.
Item description:
- Artwork: Minakari
- Production: Handmade
- Object: Mina Art Vase
- Height: 22 cm | 20cm
- Origin: Persian
- Material: Copper
- Coating: Enameled coating and metal oxide painting
Please note that no two handmade items are exactly alike.
Introduction to Mina Art
The artwork you are purchasing is called Mina, which has a rich history of around 5000 years. Mina means ‘blue’ in the ancient Persian language, and the blue color symbolizes the sky of heaven. Although blue remains the traditional color, contemporary Mina handcrafts come in various colors, including green, grey, pink, and more.
The Process of Mina Art
Preparing the Paint
Persian minakari is the art of painting and coloring the surface of metal objects. Artists typically make the paint for this artwork from metal oxide powders. They mix these powders with special oils and solvents to create a creamy paint, which they then use to paint the object. Different metal oxides produce different colors.
Creating the Objects
Craftsmen create the objects, usually from copper, by hammering and shaping them. These objects take many forms, such as vases, plates, and containers. After forming, artisans clean the objects thoroughly before covering them with a white enamel coating. Cleanliness is crucial, as even minor dirt, oil, or moisture can cause cracks in the final product.
Baking and Designing
Enameling and Baking
Once cleaned, the enamel-coated objects are baked in a furnace at approximately 700°C in several stages. This helps to solidify the enamel and prepares the object for painting.
Transferring the Design
After baking and cooling, the artist transfers the design to the surface. First, they draw on paper and punch small holes along the design’s lines. They then use graphite powder to mark the metal surface through the tiny holes. The artist carefully paints the white-coated copper object by hand, paying great attention to detail. This stage is crucial, as it captures the soul of the Mina artwork.
Final Steps and Stability
After painting, the object is baked again at around 800°C to stabilize the color. Thanks to the use of metal-based paints and the baking process, the Mina colors are stable, washable, and resistant to scratches.
