The art of traditional locksmithing in Iran: a combination of security and beauty
Traditional locksmithing is one of the original and ancient Iranian arts that has played an important role in protecting property and places throughout history. Iranian locksmiths, with their artistic hands, created locks with beautiful and complex designs and patterns, which in addition to functionality, had high artistic value.
The history of traditional locksmithing in Iran
- Ancient Civilizations: Archaeological evidence shows that lockmaking has existed in Iran since prehistoric times. The simple locks discovered in the ancient hills indicate the early skills of Iranian locksmiths in the past.
- Islamic period: In the Islamic period, locksmithing reached its peak of prosperity. Inspired by Islamic arts, Iranian locksmiths created locks with beautiful geometric and plant designs.
- Qajar period: In the Qajar period, locksmithing was known as one of the important handicrafts, and locksmiths were engaged in making all kinds of locks for doors, chests and valuables.
Traditional locking features - Raw materials: Traditional locksmiths used metals such as iron, copper, brass and its alloys.
- Tools: The main tools for locksmithing were hammers, anvils, saws, and files.
- Work process: making a traditional lock was a time-consuming process that required high skill and precision. Locksmiths first designed the design of the lock and then using their tools, they made and connected the different parts of the lock.
- Products: Traditional lock products were very diverse and included simple locks, complex locks with geometric designs, decorative locks with gold and silver plating, and special locks for wooden and metal doors.