|
Carpets and rugs are found everywhere you look, and are remarkable in their variety. You can find them in lavish designs or simple geometrical shapes, and the best are made of silk, wool or cotton.
But have you ever wondered how they are made?
The Syrian bazaar at the Night Souq on Al Seef Street, Dubai, offers you a chance to see how carpets are woven.
Based on the Souq Al Madina in Aleppo, it takes you back more than 400 years to when the kings of Europe flocked to buy Aleppo's crafts and jewellery.
Special skill
Mohammad Waleed Khusayem has been weaving carpets since he was seven years old, and explained that this is a special skill that has been passed down through generations.
"This machine is handmade; it is simple and cheap. It does not affect the quality of the carpets because it all depends on the experience of the weaver as well as the type of thread you use," said the 48-year-old, who has already passed on the skills of the trade to his son.
One whole day
Khusayem uses silk, wool or cotton to make his carpets, and also specialises in making Arabic tents. It takes one day to make a small rug (70x180 centimetres).
"It is a common sight in Syria. I am happy to give visitors of all nationalities a glimpse into our culture, and see that the art of weaving rugs and carpets is still strong and thriving," he said.
The bazaar in Aleppo apparently is very popular among the locals because everything is sold at very low prices and, according to Khusayem, this is the same situation at the Night Souq in Dubai.
Visit
The Night Souq is open from 7pm to 2am from Sunday through Wednesday and from 7pm to 3am Thursday to Saturday. Entrance free.
|
