Zoroastrian embroidery: a heritage from ancient times
Zoroastrian embroidery or Gober embroidery is one of the most valuable traditional arts of Iran, which has its roots in ancient times. This delicate and beautiful art creates various designs on the fabric using needle and thread. Zoroastrians, as one of the original Iranian tribes, have passed this art from generation to generation and made it one of the symbols of their cultural identity.
History of Zoroastrian embroidery
Archeological works and Taq Bostan patterns show that during the Sassanid period, Zoroastrians were very interested in delicate textures. With the arrival of Islam in Iran, this art underwent ups and downs due to social and cultural changes. However, Zoroastrians kept this art alive by preserving their traditions and passed it on to the next generations.
Characteristics of Zoroastrian embroidery
- Symbolic designs: The designs used in Zoroastrian embroidery often have symbolic meanings. Symbols such as fire, water, earth, sky, cypress tree, peacock and sun are abundantly seen in these designs.
- Delicate stitches: Zoroastrian embroidery stitches are very delicate and precise, and many types of stem embroidery, solid embroidery, mouse tooth and chain stitches are often used.
- High-quality fabrics: high-quality and natural fabrics such as silk, linen and cotton are used for Zoroastrian embroidery.
- Natural colors: The colors used in this art are often natural colors obtained from plants and minerals.
Applications of Zoroastrian embroidery - Clothing: The most important use of Zoroastrian embroidery is in decorating traditional Zoroastrian clothes. Lakh, Makna, shirt and Shawal are among the clothes that are decorated with Zoroastrian embroidery.
- Home textiles: tablecloths, pillowcases, curtains and other home textiles are also decorated with Zoroastrian embroidery.
- Handicrafts: bags, shoes, paintings and other handicrafts are produced using Zoroastrian embroidery.