TEHRAN - Bounded by the Caspian Sea and the Alborz Mountains, the Gilan region of Iran boasts a rich tradition of pottery that dates from millennia.

Archaeological finds in Marlik and Amlash have uncovered numerous pottery artifacts, underscoring the prolonged and significant history of this craft in the area.

Gilan has long been recognized as a major center of pottery in Iran. The local dialect even has a specific term, “Sofal,” which refers to fired clay, indicating the deep cultural roots of pottery in the region. Discoveries at archaeological sites in Marlik, Talesh, and Deylaman provide evidence of early human habitation, where people created essential tools and stunning glossy black sculptures using pottery techniques.

In ancient times, Gilan's pottery was produced in black, red, and grey hues. Rather than using pigments, Gilan's potters employed a firing technique that reduced oxygen in the kiln, altering the mineral composition of the clay to achieve a distinctive black color. This unique method set Gilan's pottery apart from that of other regions.

One distinguishing characteristic of Gilan pottery is its terracotta color, derived from the iron-rich earth of the region. Additionally, Gilan pottery was predominantly utilitarian, crafted more for practical use than for decoration. This practicality is evident in the widespread use of pottery utensils, one of the most notable being the “Gemej.” The Gemej is a spherical dish with a conical cap and convex bottom, typically glazed in green, and was commonly used for cooking. Its simple and functional design highlights the practical focus of Gilan pottery.

In Gilan, the majority of potters are women, while men usually undertake the strenuous task of preparing the clay. The tools used in this craft are simple and handmade, and the process of preparing the clay is labor-intensive and involves multiple stages.

Today, Gilan pottery can be categorized into two main groups. The first group includes mass-produced items used in daily life, such as roof tiles, and utensils like Gemej, vases, and saltshakers. Pottery dishes in this group are further classified into those for drinks, serving meals, and cooking. The second group consists of decorative and artistic items, such as clay sculptures.

The time-honored art of pottery in Gilan continues to thrive, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring skill of its artisans.

AM