TEHRAN-- On Saturday, a host of indigenous craftspeople and cultural heritage authorities in Zanjan hold an unique ceremony to mark knifemaking abilities gave from generation to generation in the west-central Iranian city.According to organizers, the ceremony was targeted at promoting the time-honored craft, samples of which were discovered in an ancient salt mine in Zanjan.There isnt much details available about the history of this kind of handicraft, however it can be presumed from historic records and take a trip accounts that Zanjan was a city where knives, swords, and daggers were massively produced beginning in the 17th century, and many knife-making workshops were developed there.Experts say Zanjan knives have actually been the most successful amongst the handmade items of other Iranian cities due to their design, cut, diversity, and durability.Iron is the essential component in the manufacture of handmade knives.

Seashells, wood, fiber, ivory, and other materials are utilized to make the handle.

Normally, the names of the knife makers are etched into the blade.

They decorate their productions with a variety of elaborate elements, consisting of ivory, seashell pieces, jewelry, gems, and filigree.The most important tools utilized by the cutlers are hammers, sledgehammers, scissors, and kilns.

To make a knife, initially, the master warms the iron in the kiln.

After it reaches the proper degree, it is created into knife, sword, and dagger blades by the impact of the hammer.

Then he skillfully develops the manage using materials like horns or ivory and connects it to the blade.

Finally, the blade is ground and chrome plated.The knife makers of Zanjan usually sculpt their names into the blade.

Gems, jewelry, filigree, pieces of seashells, and ivory are a few of the ornaments they add to their products.

From small ornamental knives that are utilized as key chains to large swords, a large range of items are made in the workshops.The deal with offers an opportunity for the artistry of their makers, who attempt to contribute to their charm and uniqueness as much as possible.

Qualities such as spring-assisted-like opening, high sharpness of the blade, and very good grip are a few of the characteristics of Zanjan knives.Some cultural heritage fans believe the art of making handcrafted knives is somehow fallen into oblivion in Zanjan.AFM