The rich tradition of Armenian coppersmithing teeters on the brink of extinction

In previous times, domestic cookware primarily consisted of copper and clay vessels. Copper containers were typically coated with tin, a process known as “tinning,” to prevent rusting and maintain their usability. The individuals skilled in this trade were referred to as “klekchi” by the local populace.
With the widespread adoption of aluminum and other materials for everyday use, the significance of coppersmithing and pottery diminished, eventually leading to their disappearance. Vaghinak Manukyan, a resident of Etchmiadzin, asserts that he is among the last practitioners of the copper crafting tradition.
Up until the 1970s and 1980s, Etchmiadzin was home to several coppersmiths. However, with the subsequent generation showing little interest in perpetuating the family trade, Manukyan stands as the sole inheritor of this noble lineage. He claims to be the sole remaining “klekchi” in Etchmiadzin, Armenia, and the entire South Caucasus region for nearly two decades.
Hailing from Van, Manukyan began his apprenticeship under his father, Serob, a coppersmith, at the age of 12. Yet, he considers Harutyun Achemyan, a resident of Yerevan, as his true mentor, having apprenticed under him for approximately 1.5 years. Manukyan fondly remembers the distinct aroma of “klaike”, a glue used in the crafting process, and highlights the intricate scents associated with the various stages of pot making.
According to Manukyan, a well-maintained copper container could last approximately 15 years. Furthermore, he attests to the distinctive taste of food prepared in an open copper bowl, emphasizing its superiority. He states, “The water you drink from a copper cup tastes significantly better.”
The enduring craftsmanship and knowledge preserved by Vaghinak Manukyan serve as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Armenia and the art of copper crafting.