Revival of copperware craftsmanship in Zanjan
The continuity of handicrafts is deeply intertwined with the unwavering support extended to the dedicated artists striving to preserve these cherished traditions. In various parts of Zanjan, particularly within its central core, one can observe a diverse array of handicraft branches that are imbued with rich heritage and historical significance. Among these crafts, the art of copperware is currently experiencing a resurgence, despite having faced numerous historical challenges over the centuries.
The rich history of this handicraft dates back over a thousand years, tracing its origins to the Sassanid period, with significant advancements noted during the Seljuk era. Artisans of that time were renowned for crafting intricate copper basins, often adorned with mythical animal designs. These exquisite creations gained immense popularity among the newly settled Turkic tribes, as reported by IRNA.
During the Ilkhanate period, the arrival of several Chinese artists—brought to Zanjan by Hulagu Khan—marked a pivotal evolution in the region’s copper industry. Artisans produced prominent and intricately designed ewers and basins, embellishing them with floral motifs destined for export to China and across the Mediterranean region. Unfortunately, little remains of these antique copper ewers and basins, which signify a millennium of craft evolution in the city; most were lost to melting furnaces, resulting in the loss of invaluable historical artifacts.
Over the years, this revered craft has experienced numerous ups and downs, leading artists to occasionally lose hope in sustaining their work, which risked fading into obscurity. However, the sound of copper artisans hammering their tools now resonates once more throughout the alleys and streets of Zanjan, signaling a revival of this authentic art form. Artists in the field firmly believe that it is imperative for authorities to provide more robust support at this crucial juncture to protect and preserve the craft, ensuring its transmission to future generations.
Mohsen Salimi, the head of the Zanjan Copperworkers Union, reported that approximately 5,000 individuals are directly engaged in the copperware sector in Zanjan, with an additional 3,000 involved indirectly. He noted that the province produces an average of 15 tons of copper vessels daily. Salimi emphasized that the flourishing of the copperware and handicrafts sector has significantly alleviated unemployment rates, asserting that bolstering support for the province’s handicrafts has spurred greater entrepreneurial activity within this industry.
In addition, Salimi pointed out that important strides have been made in enhancing the packaging of copper products, with ongoing initiatives focused on branding and cataloging efforts, including preparations to present each craft in three foreign languages to cater to international markets.
Seyyed Mikaeil Mousavi, the deputy head of the Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Organization of Zanjan Province, highlighted that over 16,000 people are currently engaged in the handicrafts sector across the province. He underscored that supporting handicraft artists and enhancing activities in this field is a top priority for the organization. Mousavi also noted Zanjan’s recognition as a World Craft City for Filigree by the World Crafts Council, emphasizing the diverse range of handicrafts available in the area.
He pointed out that traditional arts and handicrafts in Zanjan are esteemed for their antiquity, authenticity, economic significance, and cultural value. The deputy head further indicated that this vital sector not only has the potential to drive job creation but also complements the tourism industry, providing substantial employment opportunities with relatively low investment.
Currently, there are 299 branches of handicrafts across Iran, with 55 active in Zanjan Province. Prominent local crafts include filigree-making, charoq-duzi (a type of traditional shoe), knife-making, copperworking, engraving, and carpet-weaving. Mousavi noted that recent efforts have led to an improvement in the quality of packaging for the province’s handicrafts. Additionally, he mentioned that initiatives are in place to increase the number of permits for operating packaging units particularly focused on handicrafts within the province.
The variety and diversity of handicraft products available in Zanjan have increased significantly compared to previous years. Despite this growth, exports of these items have encountered a decline for various reasons. Last year, total exports of handicrafts from the province were estimated at 413,000 officially and over 287,000 unofficially. Mousavi expressed optimism that these figures would trend upward in the future, reflecting the ongoing revival and increasing global appreciation for Zanjan’s handicrafts.