Tucked away in the narrow, bustling alleyways of Rawalpindi, 72-year-old Ahsan Shakeel continues a delicate trade that is rapidly fading into obscurity. Since opening his workshop in the city’s Bhabra Bazaar in 1980, he has dedicated his life to restoring centuries-old brass and copper treasures, from Mughal-era ewers to colonial-period samovars. As modern households increasingly opt for mass-produced plastic and stainless steel, craftsmen like Shakeel and his colleague, Shakeel Ahmed, serve as vital links to a bygone era, meticulously hammering out dents and re-tinning metal to revive objects that many would otherwise discard as scrap.

The work is labor-intensive and requires a deep appreciation for the history embedded in every piece. For these master restorers, the process is far more than a simple repair; it is a labor of love that transforms battered, discarded relics into highly sought-after collector's items. While the trade has slowed down—necessitating a shift toward digital platforms to connect with a shrinking pool of enthusiasts—the artisans remain committed to their craft. As Ahmed aptly describes while carefully working on a vintage hookah, their role is essentially about "putting life back into the dead," ensuring that the stories behind these historic items aren't lost to time.