Did you know that there are various copper traditions around the world that continue to be practiced in modern societies?
Copper has long since played a vital role in human civilization, including copper hunting tools and weapons that appeared as early as 5000 BC in Mesopotamia. As one of the first metals used by humans before the Middle Ages and dating back to the Stone Age, copper has a significant role in history that is not to be overlooked.
The Ancient Egyptians even mentioned copper in their hieroglyph as "for life" to symbolize copper's durability.
So, what are some copper traditions around the world that are still relevant in today's day and age? Today's ultimate guide covers a range of interesting copper traditions that date back to decades and even centuries ago, and reflects the ancient civilization's wisdom.
5 Significant Copper Traditions Around The World That Are Still Relevant Today
Embark on a journey through the ages as we explore the copper traditions around the world.
From the ancient Egyptians to modern-day innovators, the allure of copper's unique properties has captivated the hearts and minds of many. You'll see how these 5 traditions have evolved with the times and continue to influence our modern-day world.
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1. Ayurvedic Copper Water Vessels (India)
The Ayurvedic practice of storing water in copper vessels have long been credited for a balanced dosha, which leads to improved overall health over time. Recent studies have also shown that copper has antimicrobial properties that ancient civilisations understood. The earliest uses of copper as an antimicrobial agent dates back to the ancient Egypts in 2600 BC. They have used copper to sanitize water and even treat chest wounds, as well as treat infections, scalds and itching.
In Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, drinking water from copper vessels is believed to balance the body’s three doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha) and promote overall well-being.
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2. Copper Cookware (France and India)
Copper has long been prized as a specialty cookware in countries such as France and India. Professional chefs swear by copper's superior heat conductivity for low heat non-stick cooking performances, especially when it comes to gourmet dishes. In addition, copper also has a unique effect on egg whites that gives you the stiffest peaks, which makes it a prized material as a mixing bowl for desserts such as meringue and macarons.
On top of that, sauces and jams that require temperature precision can be mastered in a copper pot or pan such as our Permian Copper Jam Pan. In addition to being an excellent heat conductor, copper is thin enough to also release heat immediately. This is why traditionally, unlined copper is used often as a confectioners' pans due to its amazing heat responses.
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3. Architecture(Europe)
Until today, there are many famous copper domes around the world that are tourist attractions and a testament to the durability and stunning appearance of copper.
Prized as roofing material by architects for hundreds of years, the bronze color of copper transform into a prestigious copper patina, which actually becomes more durable. Also used in domes, spires of churches and historical buildings, copper is still prevalent material in architecture. Modern green building movements have renewed interest in copper’s sustainability for construction.
Famous architecture such as the Statue of Liberty now have an oxide-sulfate coating on the outer surface of copper that protects it from corrosion in most environments. In addition, famous landmarks such as the Berlin Cathedral and London's St. Paul's Cathedral are recognized by the green patina on their roofs. It is believed that 18th century copper roofs found in Europe can last approximately 1000 years!
4. Copper Craftsmanship (Turkey and Middle East)
Last but not least, copper has been used traditionally for centuries in the Middle Eas, especially in places like Turkey, for crafting intricate cookware. This includes copper coffee pots known as cezve, and decorative items. Copper craftsmanship is also well-established in Iraq, in which skilled copper artisans make intricately engraved copper trays, utensils and trays with traditional motifs and designs.
5. The 7th Wedding Anniversary(U.S., Russia and Germany)
The tradition of giving copper gifts for the 7th wedding anniversary is still practiced today in countries such as the U.S., Russia and Germany. As one of the oldest metals used in human civilizations, copper is often associated with romance in which it attracts love and protects against evil. Copper is also often viewed as a symbol of durability and strength, hence its significance as a 7th year wedding anniversary gift.
Did you know that copper was not only valued for its properties but also had a place in mythology? According to the Romans, the goddess of love, Venus, was said to have emerged from the waters of Cyprus holding a copper mirror. In ancient times, mirrors were often made with polished copper or bronze, proving the value and versatility of this precious metal.
Copper lovers, isn't it fascinating how this element has been revered throughout history?
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Source:
https://www.mountpolley.com/the-cultural-history-of-copper/#:~:text=For%20many%20civilizations%2C%20copper%20has,because%20of%20its%20unique%20properties.
https://www.prestigeroofinglv.com/copper-roofing-domes-around-the-world/
https://asmy.org.au/lifestyle/ayurveda/ayurveda-drinking-water-copper-vessels/#:~:text=Ayurveda%2C%20the%20most%20ancient%20medicinal,vessels%20is%20good%20for%20balance.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6730497/#:~:text=The%20Egyptians%20were%20the%20first,%2C%20and%20itching%20(18).
https://debuyer-usa.com/blogs/how-to/copper-and-sugar-how-copper-affects-your-food#:~:text=Copper%20heats%20and%20cools%20very,made%20in%20the%20French%20style.
https://anbar.asia/art-and-craft/handicrafts-of-west-asia-and-the-middle-east#:~:text=Copper%20craftsmanship%20is%20well%2Destablished,showcasing%20traditional%20motifs%20and%20designs.
https://nativetrailshome.com/copper-seventh-anniversary/
