The art of bead embroidery in Iran: jewelry on fabric
Beadwork is one of the delicate and eye-catching Iranian arts in which, by using all kinds of seeds and beads, beautiful and diverse designs are created on the fabric. This art flourished throughout the history of Iran, especially during the Safavid and Qajar periods, and is still considered a decorative and practical art today.
The history of bead embroidery
The roots of seed embroidery go back to ancient times. At that time, natural beads such as pearls, gemstones and plant seeds were used to decorate clothes and ornaments. With the passage of time and the development of trade, various types of beads and seeds were imported to Iran, and this art took its present form.
Materials and tools used in seed embroidery
- Seeds and beads: different types of seeds and beads with various shapes and colors are used in bead embroidery.
- Fabric: cotton, silk and velvet fabrics are usually used for seed embroidery.
- Needle: The needle used to sew the beads must be very fine and sharp.
- Thread: Silk, cotton and nylon threads are used in different colors.
- Glue: In some cases, glue is used to fix the seeds.
Embroidery designs
Bead embroidery designs are very diverse and range from simple geometric designs to complex and floral designs. These designs are usually inspired by the nature, architecture and culture of the region. Some of the most common beadwork designs are: - Geometric designs: includes squares, rhombuses, triangles and other geometric shapes.
- Plant designs: includes flowers, leaves and tree branches.
- Animal designs: includes birds, fish and other animals.
- Slime designs: There are complex and intertwined designs that are inspired by nature.
Applications of beadwork - Dress decoration: bead embroidery is used to decorate local dresses, formal dresses and children’s dresses.
- Bag and shoe decoration: Bags, shoes and other accessories are decorated using bead embroidery.
- Decoration of household items: tablecloths, pillowcases, curtains and other household items are decorated using bead embroidery.
- Making handicrafts: bags, shoes, panels and other handicrafts are produced using bead embroidery.