Copper Hammam Bowls & Bath
Copper hammam bowls
The hammam bowl is the most recognisable piece of the Turkish bath: it is used to scoop and pour water on the heated marble. Its wide, shallow form suits a one-handed grip, and the raised boss in the centre gives the fingers something to hold. Motifs are punched by hand with a chisel — usually rumi scrollwork, tulips or geometry.
Size and use
A standard hammam bowl measures 16–20 cm across and holds roughly 700–900 ml. Larger versions are made for decoration and for serving. Because copper heats and cools quickly in a wet room, the bowl warms with the water rather than scalding the hand that pours it.
Use and care
A bath is permanently humid, so copper darkens faster here than elsewhere — that is expected behaviour, not a defect. Dry the bowl and let it air after use; do not leave it standing on a wet floor. Soap residue leaves a dull film; an occasional pass with copper polish brings back the original colour.
