Art of Metalwork

Relationship: Im/migrant
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 In the middle east when they started to work with metals such as bronze and copper they would mold them into objects such as spears, statues, and even household utensils. This craft has survived throughout the generations as well as the beautiful objects that were made. I am an immigrant from Lebanon and when my mom came to live with me because of her old age she brought with her some artifacts from our homeland that consisted of these fine metals. My cousins previously had their own shop in Lebanon in which they worked with medals such as copper, brass, and bronze. They would take normal everyday things such as candlesticks that you see on the far left heat them up, beat them into shape, and then sell them. Their top seller items in their shop were lampstands that you can see in the middle of the picture. Then at the far right after the lamp was cleaned it was nice and shiny ready to use. I am quite proud of this ancient art that has been passed down from generation to generation within my family. It is exciting to know that a culture like this is artistic and that you are a part of that history. I haven’t inherited this talent of craftsmanship, but every time I  look at these items in my home in America it reminds me of my irreplaceable culture that I am proud of and will never forget. 
 

Place(s): Lebanon
Year: 1976

– Gregory

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant