TEHRAN - Gilan province in northern Iran gears up for a national handicrafts week coinciding with World Handicrafts Day (June 10), boasting over 50 special programs.

On Thursday, the provincial director-general of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts highlighted that Gilan is embarking on handicrafts week with over 50 special programs celebrating the region’s rich heritage and skilled artisans.

Vali Jahani detailed some of the arranged programs provincewide, mentioning the establishment of handicraft exhibitions in Rasht, and the ceremony of reviving traditional weaving in Gilan.

The programs include exhibitions of the oldest handicrafts in Gilan, and related tools discovered from the Darband Rashi cave dating back to 240,000 years ago along with the inauguration of handicrafts stores, the official said.

Honoring pioneers, artists, and outstanding entrepreneurs in the handicrafts sector, he underscored, are other parts of the handicrafts programs across the province.

“Exquisite embroidery pieces will be showcased along the Rasht Cultural Walkway,” the director-general outlined.

“Gilan’s embroidery artists,” he added. “Will visit the Someh Sara silk factory during a one-day excursion.”

Pointing out the presence of numerous museums in Gilan, Jahani stated that visiting the Rudbar Handicrafts Exhibition and the Tea Museum is on the agenda for the week.

“Organizing a special photography competition for handicrafts,” the director-general winded up. “And holding a festival showcasing the talents of handicraft artists are among the other programs for this week.”

Gilan province, located in northern Iran along the Caspian Sea, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse array of handicrafts, as well as its unique geographical features, including lush forests, mountains, and coastal areas.

Gilan’s handicrafts reflect the traditions, lifestyle, and natural resources of the area, making them an integral part of the local identity and economy.  Among the most notable handicrafts of Gilan are its woven textiles, particularly the “Rashti-Duzi” or Rashti embroidery. This intricate form of needlework involves colorful silk threads creating elaborate floral and geometric patterns on wool or felt. Traditionally used to decorate garments, tablecloths, and curtains, Rashti-Duzi showcases the artistry and precision of Gilani craftspeople.  Another prominent craft is “Chadorshab,” a type of traditional silk and cotton fabric known for its fine quality and vibrant designs. This textile is often used for making shawls, scarves, and other garments. The weaving techniques and patterns have been passed down through generations, preserving the cultural heritage of the region.

Woodwork is another significant handicraft in Gilan, with artisans producing a variety of items from local wood, such as furniture, kitchen utensils, and decorative objects. The craftsmanship involves traditional techniques that highlight the natural beauty of the wood and the skill of the maker.  Pottery and ceramics are also prevalent in Gilan, where artisans create functional and decorative items using locally sourced clay. The designs often reflect the natural environment and cultural motifs of the region.  Additionally, Gilan’s handicrafts include basket weaving, with artisans using reeds and other natural materials to create baskets, mats, and other woven products. These items are both practical and decorative.  Overall, the handicrafts of Gilan province are a testament to the region’s rich cultural history and the creativity of its people.

XF/AM