TEHRAN – In a momentous effort to preserve Semnan’s cultural legacy, documentation of handicraft skills has been commenced across the province for the very first time.

The initiative in intended to create a comprehensive informational database and shelter prioritized crafts’ categories, provincewide. Once established, this resource will serve as a reference and archive, making information on Semnan’s handicrafts readily accessible and categorized, CHTN reported on Sunday.

In collaboration with handicrafts and traditional arts related organizations, the documentation process has commenced for handicraft fields, including pottery and ceramics, gilim weaving, traditional needlework of Sangsar, taneh weaving (towel weaving) of Kalateh Khij, woodblock printing, felt crafting, traditional jewelry, and woodworking.

The documentation of handicrafts not only aims to identify and introduce the province's traditional arts but also facilitates research and analysis for the development and growth of the handicraft industry, , the report added.

Historical background studies encompassing the history of handicrafts, the province's handicrafts, related occupations, statistics, and distribution of handicrafts within the province are among the focal points of this documentation.

Other areas of focus encompass product details such as product specifications, decorative techniques, cultural significance in production, production processes, materials and resources, including quality assessment of raw materials, tools and equipment, human resources, and economic status including evaluation and pricing of the final product.

Identification of challenges and exploration of development and revitalization strategies are also components of this documentation initiative.

The project involves examination of all handicraft fields concerning the mentioned topics, according to the related authorities.

The documentation process unfolds in two phases, with other handicraft fields of Semnan set to undergo documentation upon securing the necessary budget following the first phase.

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