Abstract:
Sri Lanka’s brass craftsmanship is an
essential part of its material culture, native expertise and
rural sustenance. The industry, mainly based in the
Kandy region, involves casting, sheet forming, engraving,
repousse, polishing and other artisanal skills handed
down from one generation to the next. However, the long-
term sustainability of the sector is being challenged by
rising raw material costs, inefficient production
techniques, changing consumer preferences, limited
market access, technological barriers, and environmental
impacts of metal smelting and declining interest among
younger generations. This research analyses the
ecological, financial, social and cultural aspects of
conventional brass craftmanship in Sri Lanka to identify
its viability. The study employed a mixed-method
qualitative approach with emphasis on the brass
manufacturing communities in the Pilimathalawa area of
Kandy District. We conducted semi-structured
interviews, field observations and process mapping to
analyze material use, production methods, energy use,
waste generation, the livelihoods of the artisans,
knowledge transfer, and market dynamics. The research
identifies opportunities to improve sustainability by using
more brass scrap, smart material design, advanced
melting systems, suitable digital fabrication techniques,
responsible surface treatment methods, direct
engagement with the market, skill upgrades, and
generational knowledge transfer. The study proposes a
sustainable crafting model, which integrates the
traditional artistry with appropriate technological
innovations, to preserve the cultural integrity of the Sri
Lankan brassware.
