The Motherland of Artisans: 9 Crafts You Didn’t Know Originated in Egypt
Egypt is known all over the world. Just the mention of the name brings to mind images of Pyramids, Pharaohs, and Just a whole sense of aw and wonder. The things that Egypt is known for are almost countless. From our ancient history to the diversity of ethnicity in our nation that results in a plethora of culturally significant products, Egypt is a land of heritage and culture.
One can go on and about naming many things in different aspects of Egyptian life. One of those things is the many artisans’ professions that originated in Egypt.
So, without further delay, here are our takes on the different crafts that were pioneered in the ancient land of the Pharaohs.
Mummification
Starting the list with what was considered a state-of-the-art craft in one of the first-ever civilizations known to mankind.
As we all know it is the process of preserving the body after death by deliberately drying or embalming flesh. This typically involved removing moisture from a deceased body and using chemicals or natural preservatives, such as resin, to desiccate the flesh and organs.
Al-Khayameya
We are not going forward in time that much, as Al-Khayameya or “tent-making” is a craft that dates back to ancient Egypt as well. But it got more widespread back in the Islamic reign of Egypt. It is the making of colorful tapestries with colors and designs that are original to different parts of Egypt. Fun fact, it’s pretty famous and beloved in the GCC region.
Al-Sadaf
Al-Sadaf or “seashell-making” is a really intricate craft, used to decorated entrances of Churches, Mosques, and fancy houses. It also dates back to the Coptic era in Egypt’s history, and it’s still preserved to this day with few craftsmen practicing this profession.
Pottery
A craft that is still strong to this very day. Just a walk down an old street in Egypt and you will find pieces made of pottery all over.
Al-Khous
Wicker-making is still going strong to this day, usually dominated by women it also dates back to ancient times, with multiple pieces used for multiple uses in real life, you can still find peddlers roaming the streets selling wicker baskets all over Cairo and Alexandria.
Sinai Embroidery
It’s a specific, interacted, breathtakingly beautiful type of embroidery native to the northern part of Sinia in Egypt. One scarf can take a month to make, because of the really detailed embroidering. The whole process is done by the hand of one exceptional artist.
It’s a really big hit in the GCC region because of the similarities between traditional Khaleeji wear and Sinian wear.
Al-Talally
Staying with detailed work, Talally translates to “Gold and Silver Embroidery”. It is a really old form of embroidery that is very difficult due to the sourcing of gold and silver. But it’s such a magnificent craft with all the elegant, opulent garments produced from it.
Copper Engraving
It is one of the major crafts in Egypt. It always stayed alive representing every historical era in Egypt. From the Pharaohs, Copts, and all the way to the Islamic era. There is an array of pieces produced by this craft like pots, trays, cubs, and so much more.
Stained Glass
Originating in Alexandria hundreds of years ago, this craft is known for its significance to worship places like churches and mosques. This particular craft is on the verge of death even though it is one of the most beautiful.
