Persian Marquetry - Khatamkari

Khatam Wall Clock

Khatam Pattern

Khatam on Copper

Pipe Khatam

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Box Marquetry Code302-7-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Box

Code 302-7-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Frame Marquetry Code286-5-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Frame

Code 286-5-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Tissue Box Marquetry Code309-2-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Tissue Box

Code 309-2-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Box Marquetry Code303-2-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Box

Code 303-2-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Candle Holder Marquetry Code351-9-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Candle Holder

Code 351-9-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Box Marquetry Code306-2-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Box

Code 306-2-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Frame Marquetry Code288-5-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Frame

Code 288-5-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Frame Marquetry Code329-11-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Frame

Code 329-11-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Wall Clock Marquetry Code298-2-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Wall Clock

Code 298-2-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Tableau Marquetry Code331-8-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Tableau

Code 331-8-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Nuts Bowls Marquetry Code350-9-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Nuts Bowls

Code 350-9-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Pedestal Dish Marquetry Code347-9-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Pedestal Dish

Code 347-9-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Sugar Bowl Marquetry Code349-9-2

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Sugar Bowl

Code 349-9-2 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Sugar Bowl Marquetry Code349-9-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Sugar Bowl

Code 349-9-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Decanter Marquetry Code341-9-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Decanter

Code 341-9-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Persian Tableau Marquetry Code330-11-0

Persian Marquetry

Khatam Tableau

Code 330-11-0 Iranian Marquetry

Isfahan Shiraz Iranian Candle Holder Marquetry Code351-9-0

Isfahan Shiraz Iranian Nuts Bowls Marquetry Code350-9-0

Isfahan Shiraz Iranian Nuts Bowls Marquetry Code350-9-2

Isfahan Shiraz Iranian Nuts Bowls Marquetry Code350-9-3

Isfahan Shiraz Iranian Nuts Bowls Marquetry Code350-9-4

Isfahan Shiraz Iranian Sugar Bowl Marquetry Code349-9-0

Isfahan Shiraz Iranian Sugar Bowl Marquetry Code349-9-2

Isfahan Shiraz Iranian Sugar Bowl Marquetry Code349-9-3

Khatam Kari Art

Khatam Kari is the art of decorating the surface of objects in a manner similar to mosaic, using small triangles. The various designs in Khatam have always been composed of regular geometric shapes, which are created by arranging these small triangles side by side. The triangles are made from different types of wood, metal, and bone. The finer and more delicate the triangles, the higher the quality of the Khatam work. In a single Khatam design, at least three triangles are used to make the smallest geometric unit, while more than four hundred triangles can be used for the largest unit. This art form predates the Safavid era and was introduced to Iran during the Mongol Ilkhanid period, following the establishment of direct relations between Iran and China. Khatam Kari reached its peak of development during the Safavid dynasty, due to the government's support of artists and the expansion of trade relations with other countries.

Khatam Making

In Khatam Kari, wood, bone, or metal is cut into triangular prism shapes, and these units are arranged side by side so that the cross-section of these individual triangles forms regular geometric patterns. Then, using a type of natural glue called sarish, these thin slices are carefully and systematically glued onto a thin wooden sheet. After drying, these sheets are applied to the objects intended for decoration.
Various types of wood are among the most important materials in Khatam making, including jujube, bitter orange, maple, walnut, teak, Tabrizi wood, boxwood, ebony, fufel, and batam. Different kinds of bone are also used due to their strength and white color, such as camel, horse, and cow bones, as well as natural elephant ivory and artificial ivory. To enhance the durability of the finished Khatam and to protect it, colored metals like silver, aluminum, and brass are used in the craft.

Khatam Kari Vessels

Khatam Kari is one of the most valuable Iranian handicrafts, with its birthplace attributed to the provinces of Isfahan and Shiraz. Khatam Kari can be applied to any wooden or copper vessel. These vessels can include a wide variety of items such as vases, candy dishes, sugar bowls, water basins, and chocolate dishes, as well as Khatam Kari boxes and even game sets like Khatam Kari backgammon boards, which are quite popular.
One of the primary uses of Khatam Kari vessels is in promotional gifts and corporate presents, which organizations and companies give to domestic and foreign guests or to their employees on various occasions. Examples of such corporate promotional gifts made with this art include kohl containers, Khatam Kari picture frames, pen holders, chocolate dishes, jewelry boxes, Khatam Kari clocks, and tissue box holders.

Stages of Khatam kari

First, the Khatam design is drawn by the artisan. Small wooden, bone, and metal triangles are prepared and arranged side by side using a special glue called sarish, then glued together. The glued pieces are tightly bound with thread to form what is called a "pareh" (a bundle or segment). After a few hours, the threads are removed, and the edges of the filed design along with several of these "pareh" segments are rearranged and glued again.
In the next stage, called "Gol Pichi," a regular hexagon known as "Shamse" is created. Around each side of the hexagon, six wires are glued and then tied firmly with thread, producing a star-shaped pattern. This star pattern is repeated as many times as needed until the overall design reaches the size desired by the artist.
The assembled design is then placed under pressure in a press. Through several steps of cutting and gluing very thin layers of wood around the design, the initial Khatam pattern is formed. This entire process involves meticulous craftsmanship and can include more than 400 individual steps from start to finish

Khatamkari History

The history of Khatam Kari in Iran dates back to at least the Safavid dynasty (1501–1736), when it flourished as a refined art form centered in Isfahan. During this period, master artisans created exquisite geometric inlays on objects such as shrine caskets and palace decorations. The craft was supported by royal patronage and became a symbol of Persian cultural heritage.
Khatam Kari experienced a decline during the political turmoil at the end of the Safavid era but was revived in the 18th century under the Zand dynasty, particularly in Shiraz. It continued to develop during the Qajar period, with notable works produced in Tehran and other cities.
In the 20th century, the art saw renewed interest through the establishment of workshops and art schools in Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz, blending traditional Persian techniques with influences from other cultures. Today, Khatam Kari remains a celebrated Iranian handicraft, especially practiced in Shiraz and Isfahan, preserving a legacy of intricate marquetry that has lasted for over 400 years.

Khatam Kari on Copper

The art of Khatam Kari is applied to various surfaces such as wood, pottery, and metals. Among metals, Khatam Kari on copper is very common because copper is highly malleable, allowing you to easily shape the product on which you want to apply Khatam decoration. To do this, after the Khatam artist prepares the Khatam pieces, they place them onto the surfaces and vessels made of copper.
In Khatam Kari on copper, the entire copper vessel is not covered with Khatam; some parts of the copper surface remain visible. In recent years, the art of Khatam on copper پhas gained significant popularity and has expanded beyond its traditional use on wooden objects. The variety of products created in copper and Khatam is vast, allowing people with different tastes to find handmade items suited to their preferences.
Examples of copper and Khatam vessels include candy dishes, sugar bowls, Khatam-decorated copper vases, mirrors and candlesticks, water basins, sherbet sets, tea sets, bowls and jugs made of copper and Khatam.

Materials for Khatam Kari

To perform Khatam Kari, the necessary materials must be carefully and skillfully selected. The essential items include: Various types of wood such as jujube, orange, maple, boxwood, walnut, Tabrizi, ebony, betel, and batam. Bones from camel, horse, cow, as well as natural and artificial elephant ivory. Metals like brass, copper, silver, and aluminum, used both as wires and layers for durability and color contrast.

Tools for Khatam Kari

To perform Khatam Kari, the necessary tools include: Special glue called sarish. Thread to tightly bind pieces during assembly. Lacquer for finishing. Tools such as hammer, file, saw, grater, pliers, scissors, screwdriver, sandpaper, and dye containers. These tools enable the artisan to cut wood, bone, and metal into triangular prisms, assemble them into patterns, glue them onto thin wooden sheets, and mount them on objects.

Modern Khatam Kari

Originally, Khatam Kari designs were formed by placing large triangles together, and the wood colors used were primarily black or white. Gradually, tasteful Iranians introduced colors such as red, green, blue, and yellow into the designs. Instead of using tin and lead, which lacked shine and appeal, they began incorporating brass metal, which added a vibrant luster to the artwork.

Care Tips for Khatam

All Khatam Kari products should be kept away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Avoid cleaning the item with a damp cloth, as excessive moisture can dissolve the glue holding the small triangles together, eventually causing the pieces to fall apart. Do not use any polish or varnish on the Khatam surfaces. Handle the items carefully to avoid any impact or shock. When moving Khatam pieces, lift them without scratching the protective layer (usually polyester) to prevent gradual damage and detachment of the delicate triangles. Following these guidelines will help preserve the beauty and longevity of Khatam Kari artworks.

Centers of Khatam Kari

Historically, the most important centers of Khatam Kari in Iran were the cities of Shiraz, Isfahan, and Tehran, each of which served as a capital or seat of government at different times. Shiraz and Isfahan gained lasting fame for the number of workshops and artisans as well as the delicacy and beauty of their Khatam artworks. Today, the primary centers for producing and supplying Khatam Kari in Iran remain, Isfahan, Shiraz, and Tehran. Shiraz is recognized as the birthplace of this art, while Isfahan is currently regarded as the main hub and stronghold of this distinguished and refined Iranian handicraft.

Buying Khatam Kari

When purchasing Khatam Kari, consider these key criteria: The surface should be smooth with no gaps, troughs, or missing parts. Colors and materials must be uniform and consistent, with no discoloration or visible repairs. All floral and geometric shapes, including corners and sides, should be symmetrical in size, design, and color. The patterns should be fine, small, unique, complex, and ideally include polygons with more than six sides. The entire piece should be fully polished and lacquered to protect against dust and humidity. The back should have a high-quality lining and special glue to ensure durability.

Where to Buy Khatam

Foreign tourists often purchase Iranian Khatam Kari as souvenirs and gifts. The Naqsh-e-Jahan Square in Isfahan and Vakil Bazaar in Shiraz are popular places to buy this art. Vakil Bazaar, a historic marketplace in the heart of Shiraz, offers a wide variety of Iranian handicrafts, including Khatam Kari, at reasonable prices. Traditional shops in both Isfahan and Shiraz are known for their beautiful Khatam Kari products.

Khatam Kari Prices

Several factors influence the price of Khatam Kari, including the number of tiny pieces meticulously laid within each cubic inch, the precision and complexity of the geometric design, and the overall quality of the materials used, such as fine woods, metals, and bone. Also, the true value of product lies in the exceptional skill, craftsmanship, experience, passion and devotion that artisans pour into creating each masterpiece.

High Quality Khatam

A high-quality Khatam Kari piece features precise, symmetrical patterns with identical motifs in size. The surface should be perfectly flat and fully covered with patterns, with no visible gaps or priming. The quality is determined by the size and precision of the geometric inlays-smaller, more intricate pieces increase the artwork’s value. Khatam is sometimes accompanied by miniature paintings which result in breathtaking beauty.

Khatam & Hmidity

Excessive humidity is absorbed by the finished Khatam product and causes the materials to swell, gradually weakening its fibers and joints. On the other hand, if the environmental humidity is low, it leads to drying and cracking of the product. The ambient humidity level should be maintained between 40% and 55%.

Khatam & Temperature

Sudden temperature changes can damage the delicate structure of the Khatamkari product, causing cracking, deformation, or discoloration. To preserve the beauty and durability of Khatamkari works, the storage temperature should be maintained between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius.

Khatamkari & Sunlight

All Khatamkari products, such as boxes, frames, and other items, should be kept away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause discoloration, deterioration, and reduce the product’s durability. To protect them, it is best to use curtains or other coverings to block direct sunlight.

Cleaning Khatam

Avoid cleaning the product with a damp cloth. Excess moisture may dissolve the glue between the triangles and eventually cause the pieces to fall off. To clean them, use soft, dry cloths.

Khatam and Chemicals

Avoid using strong chemicals. There is no need to use detergents or cleaning sprays; a soft cloth slightly dampened is sufficient. Additionally, applying excessive pressure while cleaning can also cause damage.

Polyester Coating

To protect Khatamkari products, they are coated with polyester, which over time can become damaged due to various conditions. It is recommended to replace the polyester coating periodically.

Handling Khatam Works

When moving Khatam products, be careful not to cause any impact. When lifting them, ensure that no surface scratches occur on the protective polyester coating, as this can cause the triangles to fall off and lead to gradual damage to the Khatam inlays. Avoid frequent and unnecessary handling of Khatamkari works. Under no circumstances should these pieces be exposed to severe shaking or sudden impacts. Using appropriate vehicles equipped with suspension and shock-absorbing systems can help reduce potential risks.

Packaging of Khatamkari

When transporting Khatamkari works, proper packaging is very important. These products should be packed in sturdy boxes that are resistant to impact and pressure. It is best to use materials such as foam, bubble wrap, or soft fabrics to wrap the pieces in order to prevent scratches and potential damage. Protective materials should be chosen to prevent direct contact between the artwork and the box, while also allowing adequate ventilation to protect against changes in humidity and temperature during transit.

Khatam and Pests

Pests and termites are attracted to wood, and if wooden items are dirty or old, these insects can penetrate them and lay eggs inside the wood, causing it to rot over time. There are termites that can consume even the strongest and most durable woods, destroying them. Therefore, all wooden furniture in your home should be kept clean and regularly maintained. During spring and summer, when the number of these insects increases, spray insecticide around wooden items to prevent pests from penetrating them.