Jerash stories: The wicker craft in "Al-Ahsa" is a legacy renewed between resilience and creativity

AlAnbat - Omar Kaabneh

Translated by Haya Alsaber

 During a tour of the Jerash Festival, art paintings made of wicker with beauty and authenticity, prepared in cultural surroundings and a charming atmosphere combining natural beauty and country art, visitors to the festival enjoy viewing this handmade art that remains present in all heritage councils and tents. These paintings reflect an ancient history that mimics a past of heritage and history.

The city of Al-Ahsa in Saudi Arabia, in its industrial and cultural spirit, breathes an ancient tale that draws attention to it and tells a heritage story that spans thousands of years. It is the "wicker", renowned for its natural colors and unique textures, which the people of the Palm region consider to be the mother with which it bears authenticity and beauty.

Habib Farhan is a master of this ancient craft who recounts the history of the wicker craft for thousands of years. The Eastern Region relied on this craft in its entirety. Al-Ahsa was known for the use of wickers in the manufacture of various daily products and goods such as carpets, mats, pumps, wallets, bottles and sieves.

The wicker is a testament to man's sustainability and survival throughout the ages. In spite of the evolution of civilization and technology, this handicraft is still operated and maintained by the descendants of professionals who pursue its learning from previous generations Wickers "role was not limited to local life, but global hotels in London, Kew, Geneva and Riyadh used these products in high-quality designs and presented them as art paintings.

The wicker craft in the Eastern Region remains alive and vibrant, bearing a deep cultural symbolism in the fabric of the community, between resilience and innovation, this craft remains an intergenerational heritage, while remaining present in people's homes and councils and in the veins of the city. Despite technological challenges, whickering remains a testament to man's adherence to his heritage, culture and love of beauty and creativity.