Iran Press/Iran news: This achievement not only elevates the prestige of this craft on the international stage but also protects the rights of Isfahan's artisans from competing claims by other countries.
The art of **Qalamzani** (metal engraving) is one of the oldest and most exquisite forms of Iranian handicrafts. Isfahan, its central hub, has long been renowned for its unique techniques and stunning works, which date back to ancient times. With the global registration of this craft, Isfahan is now positioned to showcase its remarkable artisanship to the world, solidifying its status as the jewel of Iranian handicrafts.
Mojdeddin Taj, head of Isfahan's Handicrafts Union, announced that after two years of efforts, the international geographical indication for Qalamzani has been secured. He noted that Qalamzani is the fourth Isfahani handicraft to achieve global recognition, following **Mina-kari** (enamel work), **Qalamkar** (block printing), and **Haft-Rang** (seven-color tiles).
Taj highlighted the importance of this milestone for local artists, especially in terms of marketing and promotion. "With the geographical indication mark, artists can receive official recognition from the union and apply it to their products, ensuring that anywhere in the world, their work is certified as authentic and distinctly from Isfahan, Iran," Taj explained.
He also addressed the challenges faced in registering Isfahan's traditional crafts globally, emphasizing that other cities and countries had previously attempted to claim these arts as their own. Taj confirmed that the union has completed the national registration of 20 handicraft disciplines and is now focused on obtaining global recognition for these crafts.
The process of international registration, Taj elaborated, involves collaboration between private entities and non-governmental organizations, supported by the Isfahan Handicrafts Union and the Cultural Heritage Department. Isfahan's Chamber of Commerce also played a vital role by financing the process, with final approval granted by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
With this new recognition, Isfahan's Qalamzani can now stand firm against competing claims from countries like Indonesia and India, which have also laid claims to the art. Taj emphasized, “By registering Qalamzani globally under Iran and Isfahan's name, we safeguard the cultural and intellectual rights of our artisans.”
This global recognition ensures that Isfahan’s traditional metal engraving, a centuries-old craft, will continue to flourish and be rightfully credited to its birthplace.
206
Read More:
Tekiye Moaven Al Molk; A Historical Landmark in Kermanshah
