Ancient crafts throughout Pakistan are part of daily life, especially in rural areas, home to 70% of the population. In the land of the Indus, the traditional artisans of the Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan pursue their skills, as they have done for generations. From household goods to bridal jewellery or tribal wear, it’s a thriving cottage industry barely discovered beyond the borders.
The Institute of Folk Heritage in Islamabad promotes indigenous craft and its annual festival is a great place to see artisans at work and buy handicrafts from across the country. The alternative is to look for bargains in urban shopping malls, government shops or local markets such as the bustling Rajah Bazaar in Rawalpindi.
Ancient Crafts in Pakistan, Punjab Jewellery, Pottery and Metalwork
Pakistan’s best jewellery is inspired by the Moghul period with finely crafted pieces of silver and gold studded with gems. Punjabi women are fond of bangles, rings and jewelled headbands which may be part of their bridal wear and dowry. Gold, rubies and pearls are popular.
Pottery is a long-standing tradition in the clay rich Punjab, ranging from domestic items to the famous blue pottery of Multan. In Bahawalpur artisans produce delicate latticed pots and jugs while others enhance their work with glittering mirrors.
Metalwork includes silver and gold decorative objects, such as wall hangings, trays and vases often with arabesque and damask-style inlay patterns.
Indus Traditional Artisans, Sindh Textiles and Woodcraft
As a major cotton growing area, Sindh has been renowned for its textiles since ancient times. They may come as double woven cloth or khes, or blended with silk, with colourful dyes, stripes or geometric patterns. Block printing is a skill requiring 18 stages and used for traditional turbans.
Woodcraft with engraving and metal inlay is found in many parts of Pakistan but Hala in Sindh is particularly praised for its lacquered furniture, each piece requiring the input of several artisans.
Sindh also boasts bright patchwork, glazed tiles, pottery, carpets and silverware.
Crafts in Balochistan, Carpets and Embroidery
The people of Balochistan are skilled producers of tribal carpets and rugs, mainly for their own use. Carpet making involves the whole family under the direction of the master weaver.
Carpets are made from camel and sheep wool mixed with cotton and designs reflect the Baloch surroundings with dunes, stars and stylised camels.
Embroidery comes in many styles and techniques across the country, on skull caps, footwear, bridal garments and more, but worthy of note in Balochistan is the delicate chain stitch embroidery enhancing tribal dress, both for men and women.
Solange Hando - I am a travel writer, editor and photographer, contributing to a range of publications in the UK and worldwide.
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