TEHRAN – Available data suggests more than 16,000 artisans have been registered as craftspeople in Zanjan province, a local official said.

In the past three years, 4,000 handicraft licenses have been issued or renewed within the province, Seyyed-Saeid Safavi added.

The official further elaborated that Zanjan’s artisans work across 55 different handicraft disciplines, with a significant focus on metal crafts.

The province is renowned for its production of copperware, knives, filigree, traditional footwear, kilims, jajims, and engraving, according to the director-general.

Shedding light on the ongoing challenges within the crafts' industry provincewide, the official pointed to marketing and sales.

“Efforts are underway to boost domestic marketing through various exhibitions across different provinces,” he further stated. “On the export front, discussions and initiatives by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and handicrafts have made significant progress.”

Safavi also noted that last year, Zanjan successfully met its employment commitment in the handicrafts sector, creating hundreds of jobs.

Emphasizing the importance of proper packaging in his concluding remarks, the director-general stated that appropriate packaging could enhance the value of products and increase their recognition among consumers.

Known for its skilled artisans and distinctive crafts, Zanjan is a cultural hub where ancient techniques are preserved and passed down through generations. The province is particularly renowned for its metalwork, including exquisite copperware and finely crafted knives, which reflect the meticulous craftsmanship and artistic heritage of the region.

In addition to metal crafts, Zanjan is famous for its intricate filigree work, a delicate art form that involves creating intricate patterns with fine threads of metal. Engraving and intricate designs are common features in many of these handicrafts, further highlighting the province’s reputation for detailed and high-quality craftsmanship.

The handicrafts industry in Zanjan not only supports the local economy but also preserves cultural traditions and provides employment for thousands of people.

Overall, Zanjan’s handicrafts embody the artistic spirit and cultural identity of the region, making it a significant center for traditional arts in Iran.

XF/AM