Booja-Booja Easter egg hand painted filled with hazelnut truffles mini

Artists in Kashmir

For almost two decades, we have been working closely with a social enterprise in Kashmir, India called Persian Dowery, whose artisans create all of our beautiful Easter eggs and Artist Collection gift boxes.

Helping traditional skills flourish

Our venture has helped Persian Dowery grow from a team of 30 artists to an enterprise employing approximately 150 people. Together, we have given a real boost to Kashmir’s declining industry of papier-mâché production and decoration.

When we started working together, the artistic industries in Kashmir were in decline, largely due to a decline in international tourism caused by years of political turmoil. Now, Persian Dowery is helping to inspire the younger generation; Encouraging young people to apprentice to older, experienced artists who earn a healthy income from their art. In this way, we help traditional, old skills and artistic techniques to flourish again.

More than just a business

Kashmir is one of the few places in the world where handicrafts still dominate over industrial mass production. All our boxes are handmade, painted, lined with velvet, checked and packaged. Many of the artists involved work from home, which is important during the freezing Himalayan winters, when families would have to support themselves but would struggle to travel to and from work in severe weather conditions.

Working from home is also helpful when periods of civil unrest lead to curfews. Persian Dowery is working creatively to continue to provide people and support as many families as possible, even during these difficult periods. This sustainable model means that people can work from home and stay with their families, supporting each other in a cooperative, community-based way.

Persian Dowery plays an important role in the lives of the people it employs; In addition to giving them work, they often take on the responsibility of taking care of their essential needs. This approach has earned the company awards within its region for its success and ethics.

We deeply value our relationship with Persian Dowery, which is why we continue to sell our beautiful Kashmir Easter eggs and The Artist’s Collection range of chocolate gift boxes.