What is Traditional Çini-making?
Traditional Çini-making shapes ceramic surfaces, decorates and glazes them, then fires them. It serves architecture as well as objects.
Form and practice
1. Origins and scope Anatolian centers developed different colors and patterns across periods. UNESCO emphasizes living craft knowledge; not all historic tiles share one city or technique. 2. How it is practised Clay preparation, shaping, pattern transfer, painting, glazing and firing interact. Kiln conditions change final colors; material knowledge matters as much as motifs.
Meaning and safeguarding
3. Social meaning and transmission Workshops transmit design and technique. Architectural tiles relate to a building’s light and space, while portable objects have another context. 4. Life today and safeguarding Conservation documents original materials and uses suitable methods. Safe studios sustain new makers. Label industrial replicas and handmade craft clearly.