Meet the Makers - the Toleware artisans of Jodphur

I have long admired the work of the toleware artists of Jodphur, India. It's fascinating to see them at work; cutting, shaping and painting the metal - using skills passed down through generations. 

I have always wanted to work with them and together I feel we have created a really unique and timeless collection.

Toleware, derived from the French "tôle" meaning sheet metal, refers to painted or lacquered tin or metal objects. The style became popular in Europe and America during the 18th century when it was developed as a way to imitate the decorative lacquerware being imported from East Asia. 

Although Toleware does not have direct historical links to India, the country's artisans have a long tradition of using painted lacquerware for decoration and it is these skills that are still being used in the production of more contemporary Toleware pieces today. 

To create our new Toleware collection, we have collaborated with small, specialised workshops where the artisans take our designs and mould flat sheets of iron into the shapes of our trays, planter, coaster and bins. The scalloped edges are then cut entirely by hand. Once the shape is perfected the metal is coated with several layers of our chosen colours and the unique patinas and textured finishes are created.

The result are strong, weighted home accessories with either deep gloss finishes or beautiful patinations.

Now all back in stock, our Toleware letter holders, planters, trays, bins, and coasters will elevate any room in your home and also make delightful gifts. 

View our Toleware collection