History, craft
and the world behind it.
Long-form guides to Persian decorative arts and the techniques behind the objects we source — written to help you understand what you are looking at before you decide to buy it.
Persian art history: a concise introduction
A concise introduction to Persian art history, from ancient Iran and Safavid patronage to the continuing life of handmade craft.
A guide to Persian handicrafts
Explore Persian handicrafts: minakari enamel, khatamkari marquetry, qalamkar textiles, ghalamzani metal engraving and firoozeh-koobi turquoise inlay.
Minakari: a guide to Persian enamel
What is minakari? Learn how Persian enamel is made, its history, materials, blue-and-white designs, quality signals and care.
Khatamkari: the geometry of Persian marquetry
Discover khatamkari, the Persian marquetry tradition associated with Isfahan and Shiraz: how the geometric patterns are built and how to judge a piece.
Qalamkar: Persian hand-printed textile
Learn about qalamkar, the Persian hand block-printed cotton tradition: carved blocks, layered colour, history, care and why qalamkar is ideal for international gifts.
Firoozeh-koobi: turquoise inlay on copper
What is firoozeh-koobi? A guide to Persian turquoise inlay on copper: its modern history, process, quality and why it has become such a distinctive decorative craft.
Architecture, bazaar and craft in Persian visual culture
Explore how Persian architecture, bazaars and urban spaces shape the look and meaning of handcrafted objects, from tilework and geometry to colour and ornament.
How to choose authentic Persian handicrafts
A practical guide to buying Persian handicrafts: handmade variation, materials, quality, provenance, pricing, shipping and choosing meaningful gifts.
Persian gift ideas
Persian gift ideas for weddings, housewarmings, hosts, colleagues and collectors — with practical advice on meaning, scale and shipping.