THE SUPPORT FROM THE GOVERNORSHIP OF MARDIN TO THE SYRIAC CRAFTSMEN

It has been learnt that the Syriac craftsmen who have been charged in the workshops opened with the initiative of the Governorship of Mardin have revived the craft of "telkari" (filigree-delicate decorative openwork made from thin twisted wire in silver, gold or another metal).

It has been reported that while the gold and silver ornaments made by the Syriac craftsmen in Midyat district of Mardin have become the favorite of the young girls, the local and the foreign tourists have shown great interest in these jewelleries.

An increase has been observed recently in the sale of ornaments which are special to the region of Mardin and which are called "telkari" (filigree). The gold and the silver material are first turned into thin twisted wire and then lacy metal ornamentation is produced. The filigree which is generally in the form of a stud on the pierced nose, or a necklace worn around the neck, or the bracelets for the arm attract the attention of the foreign tourists as well.

In order to revive the craft of filigree which has been neglected because some of the Syriac people have had to migrate from their homes in the region because of the PKK terror and the economic reasons and which has a background of thousands of years, Syriac craftsmen work in the workshops opened with the initiative of the Governor of Mardin M. Temel Koçaklar.

It is stated that these ornaments which are particularly favorite of the middle aged women are becoming popular among the young girls and a high demand is received from the foreign countries for the lacy metal sugar bowls, covers under the glasses, rosary and other objects of ornaments.

The Governor of Mardin, Koçaklar has stated that the Governorship is carrying out work for the revival of the craft of filigree and the people attending the courses in the workshops will be given support to set up their own business.

(Press, 31.05.2002)