Experiencing Jordan's traditional handicrafts
Jordan is known as a land of rug traders and carpet makers. However, outside the cities and towns, there is so much more to this country than just its trade industry. Jordan is home to some of the most ancient traditions in the world. Handicrafts have been part of these ancient traditions for thousands of years.
Handicrafts are a series of artisanal activities that are usually carried out by women and their families to make money by selling their products to outsiders or locals who buy them as souvenirs. When you see the beautiful handmade items sold in villages, camel or horse trekking routes, and rural settlements across Jordan, it’s easy to see where all this tradition comes from.
Traditional handicrafts in Jordan
One of the most popular traditional handicrafts in Jordan is embroidery. This craft has been passed down through generations of women and is often used to decorate clothing, bags, and household items. The most common type of embroidery in Jordan is the Palestinian cross-stitch, which is characterized by its bold, geometric designs. This type of embroidery can be found on everything from traditional dresses to modern bags and wallets.
Beadwork in Jordan
Another popular traditional handicraft in Jordan is beadwork. Beads are used to decorate clothing, bags, and jewelry, and the most common type of beadwork in Jordan is Palestinian seed beadwork. This type of beadwork is characterized by its intricate designs and use of small seed beads. The most common colors used in Palestinian seed beadwork are red, green, and blue, which are symbolic of the Palestinian flag.
Pottery in Jordan
Pottery is also a traditional handicraft in Jordan, and it can be found in many different forms. The most common type of pottery in Jordan is Palestinian pottery, which is characterized by its bright colors and intricate designs. Palestinian pottery is often used to decorate homes and gardens, and it can also be used to make functional items such as bowls and plates.
Metalwork in Jordan
In addition to these traditional crafts, metalwork is also a popular handicraft in Jordan. This craft is characterized by its intricate designs and the use of metal, such as copper and brass. The most common type of metalwork in Jordan is Palestinian metalwork, which is characterized by its intricate designs and use of traditional Islamic motifs.
Visit the local markets
One of the best ways to experience these traditional handicrafts is to visit the local markets and souks. These markets are a great place to find traditional handicrafts, as well as other traditional items such as spices and textiles. The souks in Amman, the capital city of Jordan, are a great place to start, as they offer a wide variety of traditional handicrafts.
Visit the local workshops and studios
Another way to experience traditional handicrafts in Jordan is to visit the local workshops and studios where these crafts are made. Many of these workshops are run by artisans who are happy to share their knowledge and skills with visitors. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the traditional crafts of Jordan and to see the artisans at work.
The Jordan Museum
Furthermore, visiting the Jordan Museum is another great way to experience traditional handicrafts in Jordan. The Museum has a great collection of traditional handicrafts, including pottery, metalwork, and textiles. The exhibits in the museum are curated in a way that allows visitors to learn about the history and cultural significance of each craft.
Conclusion
Jordan's traditional handicrafts are a reflection of the country's rich culture and history. From the intricate embroidery and beadwork to the pottery and metalwork, these crafts offer a glimpse into the past and a chance to take a piece of that history home with you. To fully experience these traditional handicrafts, visit the local markets and souks, workshops and studios, and the national museum. Not only will you be able to purchase these beautiful crafts as souvenirs, but you will also be able to appreciate the skill and craftsmanship that goes into creating them.
