The ring of hammers
A town of master coppersmiths
Copper is the soul of Lahij. For centuries the village was one of the main centres of coppersmithing in the region. Even today the steady ring of little hammers can be heard from the workshops on its streets.
From a sheet of copper the master hand-forges pitchers, trays, cauldrons, cups and dishes, and then covers them with a fine, almost jewel-like pattern. Each piece is unique and keeps the warmth of the hands.
The craft is passed in Lahij from father to son. Here you can not only buy a finished piece but also see copperware being born — right in the workshop, by the forge and the anvil.
Forging and chasing
The master hand-forges the shape from a sheet of copper by the forge and anvil.
Pitchers and vessels
Pitchers, trays, cauldrons, cups and dishes — for daily use and for beauty.
Pattern and engraving
The fine ornament is applied by hand, turning the vessel into a work of art.
Workshops
Open workshop-shops on the village streets, where masters work in front of the guests.
From generation to generation
The craft is passed by inheritance — whole dynasties of coppersmiths.
Lahij copper
Lahij's works have long been a recognisable symbol of Azerbaijani craft.
HandmadeNot only copper
A village of crafts
Besides copper, Lahij has long been famous for other crafts: leatherwork, carpet-weaving, woodwork. The carved doors and details of the houses are also the work of local masters.
Here the skill of working with the hands is part of the very life of the village.