Introduced during the time of the Nawabs, Naqqashi or repousse is the art of engraving that has been present in the city of Lucknow for a very long period of time. During those times, it was lucrative business for the artisans to sell their craftsmanship to the British as well as the markets in North India. This craft actually marked one of the turning points for the high culture that was found in Lucknow from 18th century onwards and engravings on metal such as on Paandaans, Khaasdaans and Ughaldaans were the objects that glorified Lucknow’s ethnicity.

Earlier this work of intricate Naqqashi was done only on copper, brass and silver but as the times flew by and innovations and the need for market growth came in, this craft also began to be attempted on aluminium and steel as per the convenience of the customers. But, no matter what the metal is, the process remains the same as shown here.

For more details:
http://www.dsource.in/resource/naqqashi