The story
What it is
In Multan, craftsmen stretch thin camel hide over clay moulds to make lamps, vases and jars. Painted in gold and bright floral work, they glow amber when lit.
The hide is usually a by-product of the meat trade.
Home / Bazaar / Punjab / Camel-skin lamp
Real photo comingThe lamp lit in a dark roomThe real thing
Multan, PunjabFor the home
Camel-skin lamp
Painted lamp made from camel hide
Translucent hide painted in gold, lit from within.
- Made in
- Multan, Punjab
- Made from
- Camel hide, paint, gold colour
- Decoration
- Naqashi, fine painted ornament
- Glow
- Warm amber when lit
Typical price, before shippingDirect from maker
$40–150
Find Multani lamp makers on Instagram ↗We earn nothing from this one. It is here because it belongs here.
In pictures
The real thing
Photos coming soon. Each frame below says what it will show.
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History
Where it comes from
The craft is closely associated with Multan and southern Punjab, where camels are common. Painted decoration on the hide is called naqashi.
How it’s made
From start to finished
Shape the hide
Wet hide is pressed over a clay mould.
Dry in the sun
The hide hardens to the mould’s shape.
Remove the mould
The clay is broken out, leaving a hollow shell.
Paint
Naqashi painters add gold and coloured designs.
Fit the lamp
Wiring or a candle holder is fitted.
Kinds
What you will find
Table lamps
The classic piece.
Hanging lamps
Lanterns for rooms and courtyards.
Vases
Unlit decorative pieces.
In Pakistan
How people live with it
Multani lamps light hotel lobbies, wedding stages and living rooms, and are a classic gift from southern Punjab.
Caring for it
- Dust with a soft dry cloth.
- Keep away from water and heat sources.
- Use a low-wattage LED bulb.
Buy it well
How to spot the real thing
- Hold it up to light. Real hide is translucent with faint natural texture.
- Check the voltage and plug type. Many buyers rewire locally.
- Some countries restrict animal-product imports. Check your customs rules first.
| Genuine | Likely a copy |
|---|---|
| Faint natural texture in the hide | Smooth plastic or resin |
| Hand-painted gold with small variations | Printed pattern |
Where to buy
Sellers who ship abroad
Direct from maker
No commission for us. Pay the maker directly and ask for tracking.
Find Multani lamp makers on Instagram ↗Typical price: $40–150, before shipping. Read the “Buy it well” checks above before you order, and ask the seller for photos of the exact piece.
Questions
People also ask
Is it safe to use?
Yes with an LED bulb and proper wiring. Have a local electrician check imported fittings.
Will customs allow it?
Rules vary by country. Check before ordering.
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