City of Zanjan: Birthplace of Filigree Art

Filigree is a delicate form of jewelry metalwork, typically crafted from gold or silver, using tiny beads, twisted threads, or a combination of both. These elements are soldered together or onto the surface of a metal object and arranged into intricate artistic motifs, creating an elegant and timeless art form.

In Zanjan province, filigree is celebrated as one of the most original and refined handicrafts. The city has become a hub for this art, earning international recognition: over the past two years, two Zanjan artists—Abdulhamid Moharrar and Mohsen Yazdanshenas—have received UNESCO titles for their mastery.

The filigree process is meticulous. Masters melt metal and pour it into special molds to produce wires about one centimeter in diameter, which are then drawn into slender silver rods approximately one millimeter thick. These wires are shaped in molds of boards or wax, carefully connected with heat, and transformed into a variety of dishes, ornaments, and decorative objects. Hammering, rolling, heating, and molding are all essential steps performed by skilled artisans.

Zanjan’s filigree is renowned for its signature designs: delicate leaves and teardrop motifs that reflect centuries of tradition. While the craft likely dates back to the Seljuk era, surviving works from the Safavid period indicate its peak of artistic flourishing.

Today, handmade filigree objects from Zanjan grace museums, private collections, and homes around the world. The province hosts around 30 active workshops, producing the highest quality filigree in Iran, making Zanjan the undisputed geographical heart of this craft.

Over time, Zanjan has earned 18 national prizes and three international honors for filigree. The ancient Hakimian House, currently under renovation, is set to become the National House of Filigree, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into the art, history, and craftsmanship of this extraordinary tradition.