Saraçlık

Saraçlık is a traditional craft encompassing the production of leather goods such as saddles, bridles, and harnesses. Those who practice this trade are called saraç, and their workshops are known as saraçhane. Handmade products include items such as reins, belts, wallets, and haversacks.

Saraçlık Mesleği (Anadolu Agency)

History

The art of saraçlık has historically held particular importance among equestrian societies. Tracing its origins back to the Lydian period, this craft experienced significant development during the era of the Central Asian Turks. Among Turkic communities deeply integrated with horse culture, saraçlık was not merely a craft but an inseparable part of military and social life. During the Ottoman period, saraçs were incorporated into state institutions, and names such as Saraçhane became embedded in the urban fabric of cities.

Materials and Tools Used

The primary materials used in saraçlık include cattle hide, as well as natural products such as wool felt, kösele, hair, and kıtık. Leather sourced from tanneries in Kahramanmaraş and Gaziantep is preferred. Saraçs employ traditional hand tools including hammers, awls, scissors, needles, pliers, and drills. Chains are obtained from the blacksmiths’ bazaar, while felts are acquired from local felt makers.

Product Range

Traditional products made by saraçs include numerous elements such as hamut, saddle, kedene, belleme, kolon, aşırtma, horse collar, horse bead, sarka, and gold and silver thread embroidery. Gold and silver thread embroidery, known particularly as Maraş work, was historically used to enhance the visual appeal of saraç products. Women often prepared these thread embroideries at home, which were then applied by saraçs onto saddles.

Regional Practices: The Case of Kahramanmaraş

Kahramanmaraş is one of the major centers of saraçlık in Anatolia. Until fifty years ago, there were 28 saraç shops operating in the city; today, this number has declined to just six. Saraçs typically inherit the trade from their fathers or grandfathers. Due to the small number of practitioners, an independent association has not been established, and activities are carried out under the umbrella of the Köşkerler Derneği.

Impact of Socioeconomic Change

The decline of agricultural activity, the widespread adoption of motor vehicles, and the weakening of animal husbandry have led to a reduction in the practice of saraçlık in contemporary times. While aesthetic and decorative elements dominated product design in the early 19th century, functionality has become the primary concern today. Nevertheless, unlike many other artisans, saraçs continue to sustain their livelihoods through their craft.

Saraçlık Today

The traditional craft of saraçlık is now preserved by only a limited number of master artisans. Despite declining demand for saraçlık products, craftsmen continue to uphold their trade. This master-led craft is regarded as an important component of intangible cultural heritage.