Brass is a golden-yellow alloy of copper and zinc known for its durability, malleability, and cultural value. In India, it has been used since at least the 1st century B.C. for coins, sculptures, utensils, and ritual objects. Modern homes value brass for décor, pooja thalis, and furnishings, while its acoustic and mechanical properties extend to instruments and hardware. With simple care tips, brass remains a timeless blend of elegance, function, and heritage.
Have you ever noticed how a dull brass item regains its golden glow with a simple polish? Far from being outdated, brass has been treasured in India for over 2,000 years shaping coins, idols, utensils, and décor. Today, it continues to blend beauty, durability, and tradition in homes and rituals worldwide.
The fact is that it still has its shine. It's only a matter of polishing it nicely before it turns into its bright gold-yellowish colour and spreads its beauty and charm in the room.
Brass has been part of Indian life for over 2,000 years. Archaeological evidence shows its widespread use as early as the 1st century B.C., making it one of the most important alloys in ancient society.
Reliquary casket, cylindrical in shape with a lid; made of copper alloy, corroded Excavated: Mnaikyala Great Stupa
Retrieved from: https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/A_1848-0602-1-a-b
Bronze and brass were also used to make coins in ancient India. Circular punch-marked brass coins of Dhana-deva and Arya-Varma of Ajodhya (circa 1st century B.C.) and kings of other dynasties have been found. The alloy’s durability and golden color made it a practical substitute for precious metals.
From this archaeological and numismatic evidence, it is clear that brass was in common use in ancient India as early as the first century B.C. It was known in India probably a few centuries earlier as it is mentioned in the famous Ayurvedic treatise Charak-Samhita (circa third century B.C.) along with gold, silver, copper and tin. The same medical treatise makes mention of brass in another place along with gold, silver, tin and bronze.
Circular Punch-marked coins made of brass
Aesthetically, Brass is well known for its formability and decorative attributes, in particular, its distinctive bright gold appearance. It is a highly malleable metal than copper or bronze which makes it easier to turn into different types of things. It also exhibits less friction which makes it valuable for making items that require constant movements like locks, valves, gears, bearings etc.
Brass remains one of the most versatile metals even today. Its golden shine, durability, and positive symbolism make it a favorite for both traditional rituals and modern décor.
When Indian artists made religious sculptures, they frequently chose durable materials. Brass along with bronze was very largely used in making statues of gods and goddesses in the middle ages. An inscribed brass statue of Buddha 30 cm high and 13.5 cm. wide, of the sixth century, has been discovered in a Dharamsala at Fatehpur a village 20 miles due west of Kangra-kot.
✔️Brass is considered a pure metal in Hindu rituals and is widely used for pooja thalis, diyas (lamps), and kalash (sacred pots).
✔️Brass idols of deities like Ganesha, Shiva, Krishna, and Lakshmi are popular for home temples and festive occasions.
✔️Vastu Shastra associates brass with prosperity and positive energy, making it a preferred choice for spiritual practices.
The Cosmic Glamour Of Lord Ganesha
Large Sumptuous Dancing Peacock Annam Lamp with Branching Vines and Bells
Brass accents add a vintage yet timeless look to interiors. Popular items include brass lamps, wall hangings, door handles, flower planters & Pot stands. Designers often blend brass with wood or marble to create a luxurious yet traditional ambiance. In addition to the utility aspect, brass is sure to give aglow to your house with its shiny gloss. Having brass items add grandeur and a royal feel to the house.
Tribal Door Knob
Another important function brass can have in your house is that of an aesthetic purpose. Brass wall hangings and decorative pieces are pleasing to the eyes and improve the glamour of your surroundings. Unlike other metals brass is relatively cheap but gives the same opulent look. You can check out the various decorative art pieces available on the website of Exotic India to admire the beauty of these items and paint a mental picture of how good they will look on your living room wall!
Peacock Design Wall Hanging With Hanging Diya
Brass has desirable acoustic properties appropriate for use in musical instruments. The acoustic properties of brass make it essential for instruments like trumpets, tubas, and sitar fittings. Artisans continue to craft handmade brass figurines and sculptures, blending artistry with cultural heritage.
Depending on the composition of Copper and Zinc, the sound from the instrument differs. Generally, the softer the material the warmer and darker the sound produced; harder metal gives a brighter and more responsive sound. Based on this, brass is classified into
☀ Yellow brass (70% copper, 30% zinc)
☀ Gold Brass (85% Copper, 155 zinc)
☀ Red brass (90% copper, 10% zinc).
Brass is known for its durability, but it requires regular care and maintenance if you want it to retain its shine and detailing. Here are some easy ways to keep your brass artefacts shining at home:
✔️Wipe brass items with a soft dry cloth to prevent dust buildup.
✔️For light tarnish, wash with warm water and mild soap. Dry immediately to avoid water spots.
✔️Lemon and Salt method: Cut a lemon in half, dip it in salt, and rub gently on brass. Rinse with warm water and dry with a soft cloth.
✔️Tamarind Paste: Traditional Indian households use tamarind pulp to remove stains and restore shine.
✔️Baking Soda and Vinegar: Mix equal parts vinegar and baking soda into a paste, apply on tarnished areas, then wipe clean.
For heavy tarnish, use brass polishing creams available in stores. Always read the label and ensure the product is safe for food-contact utensils if cleaning kitchenware.
✔️Keep brass away from moisture and direct sunlight.
✔️Avoid touching brass items with oily or wet hands to reduce staining.
✔️Store brass artifacts in a dry, non-humid environment to prevent corrosion.
✔️For decorative pieces, apply a thin coat of clear lacquer to slow tarnishing.
✔️Use soft cotton or microfiber cloths for cleaning instead of abrasive scrubbers.
Brass puja thalis, diyas, and idols should be cleaned before and after use. Avoid harsh chemicals and stick to natural cleansers to preserve the sanctity of ritual objects.
Brass has never gone out of style it simply evolved. What once adorned temples and royal courts now finds a place in modern homes as a symbol of heritage, spirituality, and elegance.
✔️Historically, brass was used to create statues, idols, and ritual vessels that carried spiritual significance.
✔️Today, the same craftsmanship continues, with artisans producing brass lamps, pooja thalis, and sculptures that blend seamlessly into both traditional and contemporary interiors.
✔️Affordable Luxury: Offers a golden, opulent look without the high cost of gold or silver.
✔️Timeless Aesthetic: Its glow complements wooden, marble, or modern minimalist décor.
✔️Durability: Outlasts many other decorative metals when maintained properly.
✔️Cultural Connection: Brass artefacts carry a story, making them meaningful conversation pieces.
✔️Home Altars & Rituals: Brass idols, lamps, and thalis remain central to puja traditions.
✔️Decorative Art Pieces: Wall hangings, figurines, and sculptures add warmth and sophistication.
✔️Luxury Interiors: Curtain rods, door handles, and hardware in brass elevate modern homes.
✔️Art & Music: From temple bells to instruments, brass continues to resonate with both sound and spirit.
👉 At Exotic India, you’ll find brass pieces that balance artistry and utility, perfect for gifting, decorating, or spiritual practice keeping alive a tradition that has adapted beautifully to the modern age.
Brass is considered a pure and sattvic metal in Hindu tradition. It is believed to attract positive energy, retain spiritual vibrations during rituals, and symbolize prosperity. Its durability also makes it ideal for lamps, thalis, and idols used in daily worship.
Yes. According to Ayurveda, storing water in brass vessels can balance the body’s pH levels, improve immunity and support digestion. However, brass should not be used for cooking acidic foods like lemon or tamarind, as they can react with the metal.
Archaeological findings show that brass was widely used in India as early as the 1st century B.C. It was employed in making coins, utensils, and religious artefacts, and is even mentioned in the Charaka Samhita, an ancient Ayurvedic text.
✔️Copper: Pure metal, reddish in color, highly conductive.
✔️Bronze: An Alloy of copper and tin, darker in tone, stronger, and harder.
✔️Brass: An Alloy of copper and zinc, golden-yellow in appearance, more malleable and decorative.
Genuine brass is non-magnetic. If a magnet sticks, the item is likely brass-plated. Genuine brass also develops a natural patina over time, which can be polished back to shine.
Yes, brass naturally develops a dull patina when exposed to air and moisture. Regular cleaning and polishing can restore its golden glow. For décor items, applying a thin lacquer coat slows tarnishing.
Brass offers the look of gold at an affordable price, resists corrosion, and pairs well with both traditional and modern interiors. It’s a versatile choice for everything from door handles to wall art.
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