In the old city of Tripoli, inside a small, traditional shop, Adnan Al-Sankari, a 72-year-old man, sits hunched over a piece of copper, rhythmically hammering it as if playing a conventional musical piece. Life circumstances prevented Adnan from completing his education, but he inherited the art of copper engraving and metalwork from his ancestors. Over forty years ago, he began learning the secrets of the trade from seasoned artisans in the local market.
“Working with copper used to be a source of pride”, Adnan says, gazing thoughtfully at his tools. With a nostalgic smile, he adds, “There were days when we couldn’t keep up with all the orders”.
For many years, Adnan supported his wife and five children through his daily craft. But since 2019, his work has been significantly affected. The economic crisis and periods of instability have made sustaining the trade increasingly difficult, as he notes, demand for handmade copperware still exists.
To continue his work with improved quality, Adnan needed new tools and equipment. With the support of Basmeh & Zitooneh under the FSL program, a project funded by HELP, Adnan received the support needed to continue. This assistance not only allowed him to maintain his craft but also to continue expressing a vital part of his identity and heritage through it.
When asked about his hopes for the future, Adnan chuckled gently, shook his head, and simply said: “May things get better, God willing”.
Adnan’s Journey is one of patience, resilience, and a deep connection to a craft that lives within him, a testament to how heritage and identity are preserved through generations of dedication.
Written by: Ibrahim Al Housseiny
