Filigree is a traditional decorative art in which fine silver or gold wires are twisted or woven to form various intricate motifs. The term “telkârî” derives from the Arabic words tel (fine metal thread) and kâr (work), and over time, it came to denote this particular art form. Especially refined in the Anatolian region, filigree has thrived by drawing from the area's cultural richness and has endured to the present day. Originating in Mesopotamia, it developed notably in cities such as Mardin, Diyarbakır, and Midyat. Throughout history, filigree has been widely practiced by Syriac artisans in particular.
Technical Features and Production Process
Filigree items are typically made from high-purity silver that is melted and drawn into fine wires. These wires are cut with millimetric precision, bent, and transformed into delicate motifs. Artisans place these motifs within a frame and fuse them using soldering techniques. The final product is polished and sometimes oxidized to create an antique look. This process is labor-intensive and demands great patience. Common techniques in filigree work include weaving, twisting, curling, soldering, and forming openwork patterns.
The Art of Filigree ( Anadolu Ajansı )
Historical and Cultural Significance
Filigree has historically been more than just a craft—it represents a form of cultural identity and transmission. Syriac masters have kept this tradition alive for centuries through master-apprentice relationships and intergenerational transmission within families. In Anatolia, shaped by the ethos of the Ahi tradition (a guild-based moral and professional code), filigree artisans were trained with strong ethical values and professional discipline. Filigree has been widely used in jewelry, ornaments, ritual objects, and valuable artifacts. In particular, in Midyat and Mardin, filigree making is regarded as a vital part of Syriac cultural heritage.
Filigree Today
Today, the art of filigree continues both through traditional methods and modern design approaches. While some master craftsmen maintain classical motifs, others experiment with contemporary forms and functional designs. Filigree products are found in local markets, tourist areas, and art galleries. Moreover, efforts to preserve this art form have increased under UNESCO-supported intangible cultural heritage initiatives. To ensure the continuation of this cultural legacy and the training of new filigree artisans, several educational projects are being carried out by public institutions and non-governmental organizations, especially in southeastern Anatolia.
