Naqashi · Sakhtsazi · Kashmir

Painted by hand,
one petal at a time.

Boxes, vases and keepsakes shaped from paper pulp and finished by master naqash artisans in the centuries-old tradition of Kashmir.

Hand-painted floral Kashmiri paper mache vase
Master craftsman Nasir Hussain hand-painting a paper mache bowl in his Srinagar workshop
Master craftsman Nasir Hussain at work

Naqashi designs

Shop by art form

Every motif is painted freehand. Browse the collection by the traditional Kashmiri design that appeals to you.

From the atelier

Bestsellers

Our craft

From pulp to painted heirloom

Every piece passes through two pairs of hands: the sakhtsaz who shapes it, and the naqash who paints it.

i.

Sakhtsazi — the form

Paper is soaked, pounded into pulp and pressed over moulds, then dried, smoothed and sealed into a light, strong body.

ii.

Naqashi — the painting

Motifs of chinar, iris and bulbul are painted freehand with fine brushes, gilded, and finished with lacquer.

Keep exploring

More from the workshop

Kind words

Loved by collectors worldwide

5.0 ★ from 19 reviews on our Etsy shop

★★★★★
“Magnificent papier mache bowl, hand decorated with remarkable precision and grace. Thanks!”
Steven · Jan 2024 · Verified Etsy review
★★★★★
“High quality and one of a kind item. It arrived quickly to the USA as well. I feel very happy with my purchase.”
Elena · Aug 2023 · Verified Etsy review
★★★★★
“Gorgeous craftsmanship and looks exactly like the picture. Arrived safely and promptly. Very happy with this purchase.”
Hirata · Jan 2023 · Verified Etsy review
★★★★★
“Amazing craftsmanship! Love the box”
Emma · Aug 2023 · Verified Etsy review
★★★★★
“Well packaged and quickly delivered. The box is very pretty and will make a great gift!”
Etsy buyer · Mar 2023 · Verified Etsy review
★★★★★
“Beautiful box! fast shipping! Thank you!”
Gabriele · Nov 2022 · Verified Etsy review

Letters from the workshop

New pieces, artisan stories and early access to limited runs.

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