Gilan’s handicrafts gain international attention
The deputy head of Gilan Province’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Organization for handicraft affairs highlighted the rich diversity of traditional arts in the province, stating that Gilan’s handicrafts — deeply rooted in local culture, lifestyle, and the natural environment — have attracted the attention of both domestic and international audiences.
Mohammadreza Amirinejad said that despite certain limitations, particularly in suitcase exports to neighboring countries such as the Republic of Azerbaijan, Gilan’s artisans and handicraft practitioners have continued to introduce and present their works beyond Iran’s borders by relying on creativity, skill, and a deep cultural heritage, according chtn.ir.
He added that a wide range of Gilan’s handicraft products has found its way to countries along the Caspian Sea and the Persian Gulf region, especially Iraq. In some cases, thanks to the initiative and personal networks of artisans, these products have also been introduced to European markets.
Amirinejad noted that Gilan’s handicraft production includes a diverse array of traditional items such as Chadorshab textiles, Rashti embroidery, wicker weaving, bamboo crafts, kilims, mat weaving, pottery, and various wooden handicrafts — each reflecting the historical identity and inherited craftsmanship of the people of Gilan.
Referring to export figures, he said that since the beginning of the current year, the value of handicrafts and traditional arts exports from Gilan Province has reached approximately $385,000. He added that many handicraft products purchased by domestic customers are also taken abroad, indicating that the actual volume of exports is higher than officially recorded.