Ishkar's glasses are each individually blown by hand so each piece has its own slightly individual shape and you can expect small variations between each. We are really proud to be sharing a curated collection of products from Ishkar and have chosen pieces that are beautiful and useful, storied and expertly made by artisans using ancient techniques.
Ghulam Sekhi is one of the last in an ancient line of glassblowers in Herat, Afghanistan, so we feel particularly passionate about sharing his beautiful craft with you. These gems are made in a mudbrick workshop at the base of Herat’s ancient citadel, using methods that are extremely close to those used when Herat's distinctive coloured glass was first created. The result is a product that has been traded along the Silk Road for the past two thousand years. Every single sale of this Herati glass helps build the stability Ghulam needs for his business to have a secure future, enabling him to pass on his skills to a new generation of apprentices.
Ghulam grinds quartz, plant ash (otherwise known as 'Ishkar') and natural oxides together to create the vibrant colours that make Herat’s glass so distinctive. He then blows each individual glass by hand and fires them in a traditional mud brick kiln.
We are offering these glasses in sets of two, but we also recommend you create a vibrant mixed colour set by choosing sets of two from the various beautiful colours we have listed.
Our Values and this particular product:
- Natural materials
- Minimal waste, pollutants and emissions
- Vegan
- Community engagement
- Recyclable
- Conserving traditions
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With certifications (the glass is certified as lead-free)
Shipping: sent in boxes made from 75% quality recycled cardboard that are reusable and easily recyclable, packed securely with recycled craft paper.