Copper in Ancient India c9.12

c9.12

Bronze does not appear to have been known during the Vedic age, as it is not mentioned in any of the Vedas. It is, however, certain that it was an article of common use in the 3rd century B.C. It is mentioned in both the medical treatises of Charaka and Shusruta as well as in Kautilya’s Arthashāstra. Shusruta gives directions for drinking water in bronze vessels (besides those made of gold, silver, crystal or earth). The lawgiver Manu gives directions for the purification, amongst others, of brass and bronze vessels.