Turkish Ceramic Painting - Çini
Turkish ceramic art, known as "çini," is a traditional form of craftsmanship that involves creating intricate, colorful designs on tiles and pottery. This art form has deep historical roots and is renowned for its beauty and cultural significance.
The origins of çini art can be traced back to the 8th and 9th centuries in the region that is now Iran and Central Asia. It was significantly influenced by the Seljuks, who brought the art to Anatolia in the 12th century.
Çini art reached its pinnacle during the Ottoman Empire, particularly in the 16th century. The city of İznik became the most famous center for ceramic production, giving rise to the term "Iznik tiles."
Traditional çini is made from a white clay body that is coated with a white slip and then painted with metal oxide-based pigments. The tiles are then glazed and fired.
Process:
- Designing: Artists create intricate designs, often involving geometric patterns, floral motifs, and calligraphic elements. These designs are usually drawn on paper first.
- Transferring: The design is transferred onto the ceramic surface using a tracing technique.
- Painting: Artists use fine brushes to paint the design with vibrant colors. Traditional colors include sapphire blue, turquoise, emerald green, coral red, and black.
- Glazing and Firing: After painting, the piece is coated with a transparent glaze and fired in a kiln at 950 degrees. This process fixes the colors and gives the tile a glossy finish.
In 2016, Turkish çini art was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition underscores the cultural value of the art form and the necessity to preserve and promote it.
However it was six years earlier in 2010 that çini artist Mehmet Gürsoy was designated as a "Living Human Treasure" by UNESCO, the same year he visited Australia and showcased his art. This title was part of UNESCO's efforts to honor individuals who are vital in preserving and transmitting intangible cultural heritage.
