Gaziantep Mother-of-Pearl Inlay Craftsmanship

Gaziantep mother-of-pearl inlay craftsmanship is a traditional decorative art that involves inlaying mother-of-pearl, ivory, and wire filigree onto hardwoods such as walnut and hornbeam using the inlay technique. Registered as a mahreç (indication of source) on July 22, 2010, with the application submitted by the Gaziantep Coppersmiths’ Chamber, this craft is distinguished by its regional motifs, techniques, and material usage, embodying a significant cultural heritage.

^{Gaziantep Mother-of-Pearl Inlay Craftsmanship}

Mother-of-pearl inlay employs three main techniques: inlay (kakma), cladding, and filling. In Gaziantep, four primary styles are used: Istanbul Style, Damascus Style, Vienna Style, and Jerusalem Style, with Istanbul and Damascus styles being more prevalent.

• Istanbul Style: Reflecting Ottoman aesthetics, this style uses materials like ivory, tortoiseshell, and bone in geometric shapes. Gold leaf applications are also common.
• Damascus Style: Thick, white stone mother-of-pearl is smoothed on one side and inlaid into wood, surrounded by wires made of a lead-tin alloy.
• Vienna Style: Utilizes the Boulle cladding technique with irregularly placed colored mother-of-pearl pieces, often preferred for furniture and decorative items.
• Jerusalem Style: Used in models of mosques and similar structures, this technique emphasizes plant and animal motifs.

Motifs prominently feature Seljuk and Ottoman influences, with Baroque and Rumi arabesque patterns occasionally used. Dominant colors are red and black.

The walnut and hornbeam used in the craft must be dried for at least two years and selected to be free of knots and cracks. The cut wood is rested for one week before being sorted based on the product type. Motifs are drawn, and filigree work is performed using steel chisels. The wires (brass, aluminum, silver, or gold) are annealed and hammered into channels.

Mother-of-pearl is sourced from freshwater mussel shells, such as those from the Euphrates River. These shells are broken with a keltepen tool, shaped with diamond stones, and placed into carved spaces. The mother-of-pearl pieces are adhered using a paste made from yogurt glue and walnut sawdust, with a minimum drying time of 24 hours.

During the leveling process, kerosene is used to prevent damage to the wires. Coloring is achieved with nitric acid and olive oil, while black coloring is obtained through torch burning. Finally, a polish of shellac and alcohol is applied, and upholstery or accessories are added if needed.

Gaziantep mother-of-pearl inlay products are inspected at least twice a year for compliance with production techniques, proper use of the geographical indication, and packaging standards. The inspection committee comprises representatives from the Gaziantep Chamber of Industry and the Union of Chambers of Craftsmen and Artisans. Products must be packaged in stretch film and boxes, accompanied by a warranty certificate and user manual.