Varsho-sazi, a fascinating handicraft of Borujerd
Varsho or nickel silver is an alloy that consists of copper, nickel and zinc.
Some of its unique characteristics are high luster, hardness, good ductility and easy malleability. This alloy, which entered Iran from Germany and Poland many years ago, turned into a fascinating material in the hands of craftsmen and artists of Borujerd, western province of Lorestan, visitiran.ir reported.
The craft of varsho-sazi was formed and Borujerd eventually became registered as the National City of Varsho as its practitioners created artistic, beautiful and delicate products.
Very little is known about the history of varsho-sazi; the findings of this matter are greatly ambiguous and do not provide a clear answer regarding the beginning of this craft in Iran.
However, there are some indications about the art of varsho in Seljuk Dynasty and later. But what can be certainly said is that the art of varsho flourished in Borujerd during the Qajar Dynasty.
Artists of this city gave special shapes to the alloy plates by hammering and bending them and created both applicable and decorative products.
Some of the products that can be listed were tea serving sets, coal samovar, teapots, sugar cube holders, teacups, and small utensils such as forks and spoons, kohl holders, plates, trays, bowls, braziers, water jars, rose water splinters, etc.
Samovars are the most special among them; so much so that there is another craft known as samovar-sazi, or making samovars. In fact, it can be said that Borujerd’s artists have successfully mixed chasing and hammer working and added an aesthetic aspect to these products.
The craft of varsho also has a close connection with other handicrafts such as copper repoussage and metal working.
Ali Minagar, late master Rauf, late master Gharib, Reza Golduz, Mohammad Badavar, Alireza Shaddel, Masha’llah Farokhi are some of the great masters of Varsho craft.
Today, in addition to decorative crafts, new products have begun to be made. Usually some varsho products can be found in the homes of each Borujerdi family, and they are considered a valuable part of the dowries of young girls of this city.
Lorestan is one of the lesser-known travel destinations in Iran and mainly acts as a gateway to neighboring Khuzestan Province, which hosts the UNESCO sites of Susa, Tchogha Zanbil, and Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System.