The rich history of metal handicrafts in Azerbaijan dates back to as early as 2000 B.C., as evidenced by artifacts uncovered during archaeological excavations. These findings reveal that the ancestors of the Azerbaijani people utilized various metal objects in their daily lives, including bronze tools, daggers, axes, waist belts, and gold ornaments.
Over the centuries, the art of metalworking in Azerbaijan evolved significantly, reaching its zenith during the Middle Ages. This period is characterized by the remarkable skill of craftsmen who forged an array of metal items, including armor, household utensils, chests, and cookware. Notably, Azerbaijanis have a longstanding tradition of cooking with copper vessels, a practice that highlights the cultural significance of metal craftsmanship. The exquisite jewelry and other finely crafted items from this era have endured the test of time, with many surviving to the present day.
Archaeological discoveries further substantiate this rich heritage, showcasing bronze figures of humans, animals, and birds, as well as jugs and cauldrons. As artisans honed their skills, they began creating intricate headpieces and waist belts from precious metals, often adorned with engraved designs. Many of these engraved pieces featured Arabic inscriptions, which enhanced their aesthetic appeal and cultural significance. Azerbaijani copper artisans, employing hot forging techniques, developed more than 80 distinct types of copper items, many of which are now housed in renowned museums around the world.
The primary techniques used in Azerbaijani metalwork include engraving, embossing, harasavad, shebeke, khatemkarlyg, and glazing.
Engraving is one of the oldest techniques in metal craftsmanship. Compared to other methods, it is relatively straightforward but requires keen eyesight and exceptional skill. Craftsmen utilize a hammer and a sharp cutter to create detailed designs.
Embossing involves placing gold, silver, or other metal pieces onto patterned molds, which are then struck with a wooden hammer. This process allows the precious metal to take on the desired shape and was commonly used for crafting waist belts, buttons, and bracelets.
Harasavad is primarily applied to silver, as the black chrome used in this technique provides striking contrast against the white lines on the metal. Craftsmen scratch designs into the smooth silver surface, and the area surrounding the drawing is coated with a black substance. This method was often employed in the creation of valuable items such as waist belts, daggers, pistols, and powder flasks.
Shebeke refers to the art of creating intricate patterns and designs using thin, lacy wires. There are two types of shebeke: one involves constructing the base of an object from gold or silver threads, while the other covers the surface of an object with delicate patterns.
The khatemkarlyg technique holds a significant place in Azerbaijani jewelry-making. To embellish items like daggers or swords, craftsmen first create small holes by slightly boring the surface. They then insert gold, silver, or colored metal nails into these holes, forming an intricate mosaic. This technique demands a refined sense of aesthetics and exceptional skill, and Azerbaijani artisans have gained widespread acclaim for their mastery of it.
Finally, glazing has established Azerbaijani jewelry-making as an unparalleled art form. This technique involves filling the grooves of embossed designs on gold, silver, and other metals with a glazing mixture. Azerbaijani glazing is known for its vibrant colors, including light pink, green, light blue, black, and red. Each color has its own unique properties; when heated, the glaze forms a thin film that prevents the paint from running. The enchanting colors and harmonious shades of Azerbaijani glazing captivate and inspire admiration, showcasing the extraordinary talent of its artisans.