The art of koftegari: a fusion of metal and art
Kuftegari is one of the original and ancient Iranian arts in which very beautiful and valuable objects are created by using metals, especially steel, and beating precious metals on it. This art is a fusion of metalworking industry and design art, which has had a special place throughout the history of Iran.
The history of koftegari
The roots of koftegari go back to the Achaemenid period. At that time, this art was used to make weapons and seals. But what we know today as koftegari, in which steel, hammering and plating are used, goes back to the Seljuk period. In the Safavid period, koftegari became very popular in making signs and statues of animals and birds to decorate science.
The stages of koftegari
* Design: First, the desired design is drawn on paper.
* Transferring the design to the metal: The design is transferred to the steel sheet.
* Heating the metal: the steel sheet is heated in the furnace to soften it.
* Shaping: the heated metal is hammered into the desired shape.
* Kuftekari: Precious metals such as gold and silver are hammered in the form of wire or thin sheet on the surface of steel to create the desired designs.
* Final payment: After the work is completed, the work surface is paid and polished.
Tools used in koftegari
* Anvil: to place metal and pound it
* Hammer: for shaping metal and pounding precious metals
* Pen: to create delicate designs
* Furnace: to heat metal
* Precious metals: gold, silver, copper and…
Applications of koftegari
Stuffed objects have a variety of uses, including:
* Dishes: cups, bowls, plates and other decorative dishes
* Decorative objects: mirrors and candlesticks, small boxes and other decorative objects
* Weapons: swords, daggers and other cold weapons
* Ornaments: Although confetti is mostly done on larger objects, some artists also use it to make ornaments.
The importance of koftegari in Iran
Kuftegari is one of the most valuable traditional arts of Iran, which is important for the following reasons:
* Cultural heritage: koftegari are a part of Iran’s cultural identity and express the artistic taste and creativity of Iranians.
* Creating employment: This art can create employment for many people.
* Economic boom: Selling meatball products can help the local economy.
* Preservation of traditional arts: by supporting koftegari, you can help preserve and revive traditional arts of Iran.