Iran is a well known country around the world. It is one of the only countries in the world that encompasses such an astonishings culture and history. Throughout many centuries, various dynasties and emperors took residence in Iran, and each one of them had their own specific culture.
All of these cultures added up throughout time and because of this, many traditional handicrafts were made that still exist to this day. These traditional handicrafts showcase the art and creativity of their makers. These pieces take hours of intense focus and precision to be made. Many of these forms of handicrafts are old and have been kept for future generations. Iranian traditional handicrafts are practical and also a piece of history and art. They truly showcase the beauty and intricacy of Iranian craftsmanship and remind us of the rich history and culture of Iran. We will explore some of the most famous Iranian handicrafts that show the rich and unique Iranian culture.
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PERSIAN MINIATURE; SYMBOL OF IRANIAN ART
Any traveler who has traveled to cities like Isfahan and Shiraz in Iran knows that miniature is one of the most beautiful forms of Iranian handicrafts. Most of the miniatures are small pieces of painting on different textures and materials. A form of applying the miniature style is wall paintings. There are many wall paintings with beautiful miniature paintings that can last for decades. However, miniatures are found on other materials too, such as tiles, jewelry boxes, or even paper.
The Iranian miniatures contain mystical patterns inspired by their time’s beliefs and culture. The bright coloring that is used in this form of painting is usually extracted from minerals. The process of extracting those minerals is also done with minimum tools and mostly bare hands. Then they go through the process to become paint that can be used in creating these fabulous handicrafts.
CARPET WEAVING; A MIXTURE OF TRADITION AND TECHNIQUE
Another form of Iranian handicraft that is well-known around the world is carpet weaving. They have intricate patterns and bright colors and their price is based on these two factors. There are miniature patterns and flowers, but the most important design is gardens. Gardens full of flowers, trees, and ornaments. Most of the time. The garden pattern symbolizes heaven and its beauty; a concept that can be found in many forms of Iranian art.
The carpet weaving process needs patience and focus. In Iran, it is a tradition that women usually weave the carpets and spend hours and even months to finish their works of art. Wool is a material that is commonly used and the quality of it determines the price of the rug. Silk is also used in the process of adding vibrant and shiny colors to different parts of the carpet. Kerman and Kashan are two of the Iranian cities that are famous for their carpets around the world and most of their rugs are imported.
TRADITIONAL HANDICRAFTS AND SOUVENIRS
Each city has its color, history, and heritage. The tale that each city carries can be found in its souvenir. Souvenirs can vary greatly; from handicrafts and rugs to foods and tasty treats. Numerous cities in Iran have tasty dishes and treats as their souvenirs alongside handicrafts. A great example is Isfehan. Gaz is a tasty treat that is one of the souvenirs of Isfahan. Other cities also have their specific souvenirs. Rugs and carpets are both souvenirs and handicrafts of cities such as Kashan and Yazd.
Another amazing example is Khatam-Kari. It is one of the oldest handicrafts in Iran. It is known for its delicate design and complex patterns. The process of Khatam-Kari begins with choosing a piece of wood that serves as your main piece. Then, different tiny pieces of metal, wood, or bone are placed onto it in various shapes and colors. It is mostly used to create pieces of traditional handicrafts that can last for decades and can be passed to other family members. It truly captures the beautiful culture that each city has into a memorable piece that you can carry everywhere.
POTTERY; HANDMADE PIECES OF ART
Another form of handicrafts in Iran is pottery. It is the art of shaping mud into useful pieces of art including vases, plates, cups, and more. This form of art is common in many cities throughout Iran. Many people in cities such as Hamedan and Yazd make them with their own hands and the concept they have in mind. Then it is colored; whether by natural mineral color or by industrial paint to get that last touch of beauty.
Pottery is usually called earthenware, which represents a form of utensil that is made up of earthly material. In the past, Iran was in the middle of the Silk Road, a long road that passed through many countries and was used for transportation of goods. This caused Iranians in all parts of the country to be involved in making pottery. This form of traditional handicraft which is both a souvenir and a form of art, can be found in many shapes and colors in different cities in Iran.
Being one of the most historic countries on Earth, Iran encompasses a variety of handicrafts and traditional crafts. Every one of them has their own unique story and method of being made. A miniature is a great form of art that represents the symbols and rich patterns that can be found in Iranian culture. Carpet weaving also demonstrates the incredible work that can be put into making something amazing that can last for decades and even centuries.
If you look at the different handicrafts of all parts of Iran, you can easily notice the rich history and culture. A culture that keeps giving and is deep-rooted in traditions that people have had throughout the years. These handicrafts capture the soul of the country and most of the traditional crafts and souvenirs showcase the timeless treasures that people can make.
