Copper crafts prominent in Suk el Khan and attract tourists

In its edition of today, As Safir newspaper portrayed the historic comeback of the traditional copper trade which is flourishing in the southern markets. Copper goods, As Safir wrote, are highly demanded among Lebanese consumers as they are showcased during touristic festivals, and in antique shops and village banquets across Lebanon. Copper has also become an essential part of the local cookware and kitchen tool set, in addition to its acclaimed decorative function both indoors and outdoors, the newspaper added. In the popular Suk el Khan in Hasbaya and similar traditional markets, street stalls are festooned with copper pots and pans that often capture the attention of market goers, As Safir went on to say. For more insight, the newspaper talked to one merchant, Samer, who described the metal as the ‘chief in command of the marketplace’, mostly because of its affordable price. The main clientele of the bazaar are Lebanese or foreigners who work within the UNIFIL forces in the South, and who opt to take home with them copper gadgets as gifts to their families, Samer boasted. For his part, Omar who works in organizing local summer festivals in the borderline area, said that different assortments of copperware that were displayed during the festivities have grabbed the attention of passersby. Old copper utensils and crafts are being collected for restoration through the conventional ‘whitening’ technique by specialists, who are almost extinct, Omar lamented. (As Safir, November 29, 2016)