Timeless art of knife making in Zanjan Province
For centuries, Zanjan Province has been renowned for its high-quality knives, crafted by skilled artisans. Historical evidence indicates that the tradition of knife-making in the region dates back to the era of the salt men, with knives discovered among the artifacts, highlighting a long-standing legacy in the area.
Zanjan knives represent some of the earliest and most significant documentation of the local knife-making industry. They are celebrated for their distinctive qualities, including elegance, balance, blade coating, and cutting power—all of which showcase the craftsmanship of both past and present artisans.
During the Safavid era, masters like Abdolghaffar Sekak greatly contributed to the prosperity of this vital industry. Additionally, credible records from the National Archives and Library reveal correspondence from 1944 CE listing the names and signatures of 31 Zanjan knife makers, IRNA wrote.
Today, the knife-making industry in Zanjan continues to thrive, facing both challenges and triumphs. Some artisans have established noteworthy reputations through their exceptional work, while others are dedicated to preserving this authentic craft for future generations.
These artisans pay close attention to their clients’ preferences, producing a diverse range of knife models in various sizes and shapes. Some feature decorative handles, making them ideal for display in museums or as collector’s items.
According to the Deputy Head of Zanjan Province’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Organization for handicrafts and traditional arts, approximately 2,000 small and large workshops currently operate in the province. Zanjani knife makers typically engrave their names and unique emblems or seals on the blades of their knives.
Seyyed Mikaeil Mousavi highlighted that these craftsmen incorporate decorative elements such as jewels, mother-of-pearl, and ivory into their creations. The workshops in Zanjan produce a wide variety of items, from small decorative knives that can be used as keychains to large swords.
He further noted that the knife handles showcase the artisans’ artistry, as they strive to enhance the beauty and uniqueness of their pieces through intricate carvings and the addition of decorative elements. Zanjan knives are recognized for their spring-like flexibility, enduring sharpness, and ease of handling.
Mousavi explained that the various types of Zanjan knives are influenced by the creativity and innovation of the artisans and can be categorized into two types: simple or regular knives and compound or intricate knives.
He mentioned that most collectible knives are exported, with Zanjan’s pocket and carving knives unmatched in beauty, decoration, and the quality of their blades and coatings. In the city of Zanjan, artisans possess expertise in constructing over 40 types of knives, and many skilled craftsmen also excel at creating carving knives, kitchen knives, and sugar cutters.
Moreover, decorative collectible knives are primarily exported to Arab and European countries, swords are shipped to Arab nations, and pocket knives are sent to both European and Arab markets. Various types of knives produced in Zanjan are available in both domestic and international markets, including pocket knives, hunting and outdoor knives, kitchen knives, butcher knives, gardening and grafting knives, as well as cleavers and kebab knives. The Zanjan carving knife, available in single and double blade options, is renowned for its high sharpness and durability, making it suitable for carving materials such as reed, bamboo, and rattan.
Mousavi concluded by emphasizing that preserving, maintaining, and rejuvenating the knife industry in Zanjan requires supporting and encouraging children, youth, and individuals interested in this craft.
Hadi Fazli, a prominent knife-making artist in the province with over 34 years of experience, shared his journey: “I entered this art in 1989 during my adolescence and have been dedicated to it ever since.” At around 50 years old, this seasoned Zanjani artist conveyed his passion for the trade, stating, “Not only I, but many artists in this field have embraced this work with love and passion. As one of the late knife-making artists from the province remarked, it is love and passion that create a knife.”
Fazli highlighted the various challenges facing the knife-making art in Zanjan Province, noting, “In meetings with organizations such as the Cultural Heritage Department, and the knife-making union, we’ve discussed the issues troubling this industry.”
He pointed out the detrimental impact of some individuals using low-quality raw materials for knife-making, saying, “Despite the recent resurgence of Zanjan knives, opportunistic individuals are tarnishing the reputation of this authentic art by selling subpar knives.”
The veteran Zanjani knife maker emphasized that the knives produced in this province belong to all its people, not to any individual or group. “Most people recognize this province by its knives, and the lack of serious inspection and oversight in this industry has compromised the production of quality knives,” he said.
Fazli also stressed that while a variety of knives are available, higher-quality options are significantly more expensive. He mentioned, “In meetings with the officials of Islamic Azad University, we agreed to brand and standardize Zanjan knives.” He believes that branding could lead to positive outcomes, adding, “The lack of quality packaging is another issue within this industry.”
Additionally, he stated that insufficient income poses challenges for newcomers to the knife-making profession, remarking, “Creating a knife takes a considerable amount of time, making it difficult for those new to this craft, often resulting in lower earnings.”
Fazli expressed optimism about the potential for exporting fine knives to Persian Gulf countries, asserting, “The lack of a suitable market and insurance issues also dissuade participants in this field.” He urged officials to offer greater support for the enduring and authentic art of knife-making, highlighting, “This industry has a rich history, and we hope that officials will provide the necessary backing to enable artisans to export their products comfortably throughout the country and abroad without concerns.”