Khoy’s traditional knifemaking seeks greater support
Khoy, in West Azarbaijan Province, has long been recognized as one of northwestern Iran’s major centers of traditional arts and crafts, thanks to its rich historical and cultural heritage. The city’s historic covered bazaar, with a history spanning more than 500 years, is home to numerous specialized sections, including the blacksmiths’ market, coppersmiths’ bazaar, tinsmiths’ alley, and carpet merchants’ quarter, where generations of artisans have practiced their crafts.
Among the bazaar’s traditional arts, knifemaking holds a distinguished place. Passed down through generations of master craftsmen, the centuries-old craft continues today despite numerous challenges, with only a handful of artisans still preserving the tradition.
Javad Abulhassan-Oghli, a recipient of Iran’s National Skill Award and National Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts for traditional blacksmithing, horn-handle craftsmanship, and knifemaking, is one of the veteran artisans who has spent decades producing traditional knives in a rented workshop.
Speaking to IRNA, he said he learned the craft from his forefathers, adding that every knife reflects years of accumulated experience and traditional knowledge. According to him, the quality of each knife depends on the selection of steel, the blade-hardening process, blade finishing, and handle craftsmanship.
Abulhassan-Oghli explained that blades are made from steels with varying degrees of hardness, while the hardening process relies on a traditional formula combining dozens of medicinal plants, oils, and natural materials that has been passed down orally within his family for generations.
His workshop produces a wide range of knives, including kitchen, butcher, agricultural, and pocket knives. Most handles are crafted from wood, buffalo horn, or other durable materials, while silver is incorporated into some pieces to enhance their artistic and decorative value.
The artisan also expressed concern over limited institutional support. Although he has received financial assistance through the Barakat Foundation and the Alavi Foundation, he said additional support from relevant authorities is needed to expand workshops, train apprentices, and preserve the craft.
He identified the lack of a structured training program for younger generations as one of the profession’s greatest challenges, warning that without systematic knowledge transfer, an important part of Khoy’s cultural heritage could gradually disappear.
Reza Bayramzadeh, head of Khoy’s Department of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, emphasized the importance of safeguarding the region’s intangible cultural heritage, describing Khoy’s traditional knifemaking as a registered element of Iran’s intangible cultural heritage and a symbol of the area’s indigenous knowledge, technical expertise, and cultural identity.
He said safeguarding the craft extends beyond its official registration and includes documenting traditional production techniques, supporting master artisans, training younger generations, and promoting the craft through exhibitions and cultural events.
Bayramzadeh noted that West Azarbaijan Province is home to 14 nationally registered elements of intangible cultural heritage. Some, including the traditional Ashirma wrestling practiced in Khoy, are deeply rooted in the region’s customs and traditions. Efforts to preserve these traditions include documentation projects, cultural content production, festivals, book publications, and support for academic research.
He added that providing low-interest loans to artisans, honoring master craftsmen, and creating better opportunities for marketing and selling handicrafts could play a significant role in ensuring the survival of traditional arts and preserving the region’s intangible cultural heritage.
Traditional knifemaking is among Khoy’s oldest crafts, with its origins believed to date back to the Safavid era or even earlier. The craft continues in a number of traditional workshops within the city’s historic bazaar, but its long-term survival depends on greater support, effective training, and broader public awareness for future generations.
Situated in northwestern Iran near the border with Turkey, Khoy is characterized by a pleasant mountainous climate, fertile plains, and picturesque natural landscapes. The city has long served as a gateway between Iran and neighboring regions, benefiting from its strategic location on historic trade routes. Alongside its rich cultural heritage, Khoy is known for the hospitality of its people, whose traditions, handicrafts, and agricultural lifestyle have helped preserve the city’s distinctive identity through generations.