Camel Skin Lamps
The Art of Glowing From Multan
An Honor to Centuries Old Camel Skin Lamp Artists
One of the oldest living cities in South Asia, The City of Saints (Multan), is a land where history inhales through its streets, shrines, and crafts. It holds a rich cultural value which is well-kept not only through architecture and poetry but also with the hands of its artisans. Surrounded by its many traditional art forms, one craft continues to glow called camel skin lamps.
These glowing masterpieces are more than just decorative objects. They are symbols of Pakistan’s specifically southern Punjab’s tradition, resilience, and the brilliance of generations of this art and artists who have kept this craft alive for centuries.
A Skill That Rooted in Centuries old Tradition
The art of making these strokes of genius has been accomplished in Multan and its nearby areas for centuries. It is quite mind blowing that this art is handed over from one generation to the next with more and more advancements, it reflects the region’s deep connection with nature, utility, and aesthetics.
In the modern age, when mass production dominates the market, these glowing pieces stand tall as a reminder that true craftsmanship takes time, patience, and human touch.
The Detailed Process behind Camel Skin Lamps
Every piece of camel skin lamp is the result of a layered artisanal process, involving several skilled persons with each mastering a specific skillset.
1. Preparing the Camel Skin
It begins with sourcing the best quality camel/cow hides. The skin then systematically cleaned and cured to make it suitable for shaping and long-term use.
2. Shaping with Plaster Molds
At this level the processed skin is layered over molds made with plaster of Paris. These molds define the final form of the lamp, whether it’s a vase, box, Glass, bottle, dome, or traditional shade shape.
3. Dry under the Sun
At this stage the lamp is ready to dry under the sun for several days. In this time, the skin dries naturally and takes the shape of that specific mold.
4. Time to remove the Mold
When it dried, the plaster mold removed carefully from inside, leaving behind a lightweight but strong shell ready for painting.
5. Sketching, Painting & Lacquer Work
This is the most important stage, when it passed to the painter who paints floral motifs, geometric patterns, and traditional designs on it while using natural or vibrant colors. After painting is done a layer of lacquer applied on it to protect the art and increase the glow when turned on.
6. Electrical & Base Assembly
The Last Stage, when another artisan installs the electrical components usually a bulb holder and attaches a wooden base and after this step the lamp truly come to life.
When it is lightened within, the lamp produces a warm, golden glow, illuminating the sophisticated patterns painted by hand.
A Living Cottage Industry of Multan
Multan’s cottage industry is deeply rooted with this craftsmanship, normally it is practiced in small workshops and homes instead of factories. Mostly all Family members work together, even children learning the craft by observing their elders.
From the last five years, we have had the privilege of closely observe and document this remarkable art in its true form. By visiting the workshops and artisan’s homes provides us the privilege to witness the production of these extraordinary lamps. We also experienced the lives behind them, the dedication, The pride, and the struggle to keep this tradition alive in a swiftly modernizing world.
This documentation is not just about art; it is about honoring the hands that refuse to let centuries of heritage fade away.
Why This Craft Still Matters Today
In the age of automation and fast décor, camel skin lamps represent:
- Sustainability through natural materials
- Cultural identity rooted in Pakistan’s heritage
- Human craftsmanship over machine perfection
Supporting this craft means supporting real people, real stories, and real history.
Maintaining the Glow for Future Generations
These artists are not just providing an art form to the future generations but they are protecting the identity of it. We at Kraft Store, sharing their story, purchasing authentic handmade pieces from them and acknowledging their extravagant art work, we ensure that this glowing tradition continues to shine in modern times.
Please share this story to honor:
- The artisans who began this tradition centuries ago
- The generations who continue to keep it alive today