The 4th International Handicraft Exhibition ended Monday after negotiations to extend the event did not produce results. With over 400 pavilions and influx of buyers and enthusiasts, it was understandable why the participants were eager on an extension.

Every province in Iran boasts its own unique art and craft, all of which were represented at the exhibition. Calico (Ghalamkar), silver work, turquoise, enamels (both on pottery and on copper), leather, inlay work (Khatam), tile painting work, handmade pottery and copperware were some of the traditional Iranian art and craft on display at the five-day annual exhibition.

The open space at Tehran International Permanent Fairgrounds, where the exhibition was held, was dotted with black nomadic tents decorated with colorful objects.

The nomads provided visitors with a plethora of information about their traditions and unique crafts. Having rarely had a formal education regarding nomadic lifestyle, the visitors from different walks of life used the opportunity to make the best of the occasion.

One of the major attractions was a 1,900 kg metal bull worth an estimated 10 billion rials ($300,000). The sculpture by renowned Isfahani engraver, Jahangir Ayati, took three years to be completed and was registered on Iran�s National Heritage List last year.

Representatives from Turkey, Lebanon, India, Kuwait, Afghanistan and Algeria, as well as Iran-Serbia, Iran-Sierra Leone and Iran-Tajikistan friendship associations took part.

By Financial Tribune