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London’s Ishkar Shop Revives Afghan and Pakistani Artisan Craftsmanship Globally

A tiny London shop is rewriting the story of Afghan craftsmanship—one handwoven shirt and gemstone at a time. Meet the artisans behind the luxury revolution.

In this picture I can see a shop, where there is a board, light, there are hats, flower vases, a...
In this picture I can see a shop, where there is a board, light, there are hats, flower vases, a balloon, some items packed in the boxes, there are stickers on the glasses.

London’s Ishkar Shop Revives Afghan and Pakistani Artisan Craftsmanship Globally

A small shop in east London is bringing the craftsmanship of Afghanistan and Pakistan to a global audience. Ishkar, founded in 2016, specialises in luxury textiles, jewelry, and homeware—all handmade by artisans facing economic hardship. The business aims to challenge stereotypes by showcasing the skill and artistry of the region.

Edmund Le Brun and Flore de Taisne opened Ishkar to highlight Afghan and Pakistani craftsmanship rarely seen in mainstream media. Their collection includes handwoven shirts from Karachi, traditional woollen waistcoats, and embroidered fabrics used for drapery and upholstery. The shop also sells handmade jewelry featuring indigenous Afghan gemstones, often designed with input from UK-based artists.

Ishkar’s model connects luxury buyers with skilled craftspeople in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The shop’s focus on quality and ethical production has created jobs and preserved heritage techniques. With a growing range of products, it continues to expand opportunities for artisans in the region.

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