Have you heard of Cheniteh weaving?

Marquetry of handwoven carpets is one of the newest and most captivating handicrafts that, despite its beauty and authenticity, is still not widely recognized among art enthusiasts. This art uses handwoven carpets, renowned for their unique designs and charming colors, to create extraordinary works of art. The art of marquetry, or Cheniteh weaving, is a beautiful expression of this craft, combining weaving and design with precision and delicacy. In this article from the Zollanvari website, we intend to explore this art in detail. So stay with us until the end.

What is Cheniteh weaving or marquetry of handwoven carpets?

The art of “carpet marquetry” refers to a kind of creativity and finesse in combining Iranian handwoven fabrics with various objects and utensils. This art, introduced to the world of handicrafts in the 1980s, does not require traditional tools such as saws or blades and is created using materials like carpets, jajeem (a type of coarse fabric), kilims, and tools like scissors, wood glue, and merino wool. In this process, each piece of carpet is carefully selected; carpets with over 40 knots, especially those woven with pile, enhance the quality and appearance of the work. The seams of the work must be carefully covered with merino wool, as the use of low-quality external sealants does not ensure the beauty and durability of the piece. The marquetry design should harmonize with the object and maintain the symmetry of shapes so that the final result meets high visual standards.

How is Cheniteh weaving performed?

Handwoven carpet marquetry is an attractive and creative art form where pieces of carpets, jajeem, and kilim are artistically placed on various utensils and equipment. This technique allows you to utilize a variety of fibers, from coarse wool and pile to fine carpets, to create unique artworks. To embark on this artistic journey, you need essential tools such as scissors, wood glue, iron glue, pliers, needles, and merino wool. The final quality of the work depends on two key factors: the type of pieces used and the accuracy of execution. One of the most common issues in Cheniteh weaving is the presence of unwanted seams between glued pieces, which can affect the beauty of the work. Therefore, if you are interested in purchasing this attractive product, it is essential to pay attention to details like seams as well as the beginning and end of the work. A high-quality marquetry piece should not be easily recognizable, and the symmetry of the designs should be well preserved with the intended object.

Is Cheniteh the same as Cheniteh weaving or not?

Cheniteh is a type of traditional bag or pouch that plays an important role in nomadic life. This product serves as a place to store essential items like mirrors, combs, the Quran, and sewing tools. This artistic piece is woven with a handle made of its own yarn, allowing it to be hung or slung over the shoulder. Over time, the use of Cheniteh has gradually declined and is now mostly limited to decorative aspects in home and car decor. The designs used in weaving Cheniteh often include names of religious figures and motifs of birds and domesticated animals. Observing these patterns conveys a sense of freshness and natural life to the viewer. Cheniteh is not only a symbol of rich art and culture but also a deep connection to the history and traditions of the people.

Final Words

Marquetry of handwoven carpets is an attractive and innovative art that creates unique works of art using Iranian handwoven carpets. This technique, introduced to the world of handicrafts in the 1980s, does not require traditional tools and is done with materials like carpets, jajeem, and kilim. Today, handwoven carpets and kilims have found a special place among the people, and many prefer to use these products for their homes or workplaces. If you also intend to make a purchase, we recommend using the guide for buying silk handwoven carpets.