Pottery: an ancient art and cultural heritage in Herat
Pottery is one of humanity's oldest arts and crafts, dating back to the Neolithic period (New Stone Age) around 10,000 years ago. Early humans, after discovering fire, used clay to store water and food, gradually learning that heating the clay could transform it into durable vessels. Over time, this art developed, and humans incorporated innovative techniques in designs, patterns, colors, and glazes, leaving behind an important part of their cultural identity and civilization. This art became a symbol of creativity, artistry, and culture in various civilizations, including Mesopotamia, Egypt, ancient Greece, and the Islamic world. Many of these handmade pieces are still preserved in museums and archaeological treasures.
In Islamic lands, between the 9th and 15th centuries, pottery emerged as one of the most prominent and advanced art forms. Muslim artisans, in addition to intricate patterns and complex glazing techniques, used Arabic calligraphy to decorate pottery. These inscriptions often included Quranic verses or poetry, becoming an integral part of the unique aesthetics of Islamic pottery.
Herat, as one of the most significant cultural centers during Islamic periods, had a profound influence on the art of pottery. During the Seljuk, Timurid, and Safavid eras, pottery in Herat reached its peak. Herati artisans, with their unique techniques in glazing and decoration, produced pottery adorned with geometric patterns, miniature paintings, and exquisite calligraphy. Although this art underwent transformations over time due to political and social changes, contemporary Herati artists continue to create pottery using traditional techniques, ensuring that Herat’s pottery remains internationally recognized.
It is said that in the past, Herati potters produced more than seventy types of pottery, but with the rise of porcelain, plastic, and melamine products, the variety of pottery has dwindled to a limited range. Today, pottery production in Herat is largely confined to decorative items such as vases, bowls, shisha pipes, and ornamental vessels.
