The blackened surface of unique jewelry from the Kubachi craftsmen always attracted the views of others, regardless of the gender of the person. After all, such jewelry looks great not only on women, but also on men.
What it is?
Many people will say that all silver, or rather, products made from it, are the same. However, this judgment is not true. Kubachi silver looks great and keeps an amazing story. The main distinguishing feature of such products is the blackened coating.
For many years, Caucasian craftsmen have been considered the best in the manufacture of silver products.
As a rule, Kubachi silver products are distinguished by three variants of patterns.
- The most difficult is the technique of marharay. The meaning of the word is “thickets”. The ornament is an interweaving of leaves and flowers in various variations. Only those craftsmen who have a good mastery of technology can make such decorations.
- Medium-sized technique called tutta. The drawing with its appearance resembles an oblong bouquet of flowers.
- The image, located in the middle of the decoration and similar to a seal, is called tamga.
Can say that Kubachi silver is the cultural heritage of Dagestan.
History
Kubachi is a Dagestan settlement located in the mountainous part of this republic. It is considered one of the largest traditional centers for the artistic processing of non-ferrous metals. In ancient times, chain mail was made here to protect soldiers, as well as weapons that were distinguished by fine carvings and adorned with precious stones or inscriptions.
If you believe the legends, then it is Kubachin craftsmen made a sword for Mstislav the Great. In addition, their sabers could be found even among the soldiers of the royal cavalry. Since then, Kubachi silver has become famous far beyond the borders of the village, as well as the whole of Dagestan. If you go back to the present, then the huge collection of Kubachi edged weapons, which was once donated by Alexander III to the British royal family, is now on display at the Museum of London.
However, not only weapons glorified their masters. Many are great silver table was also made. Such products symbolized the well-being and wealth of the family. So, silverware from Dagestan could be seen in the collection of the imperial Romanov family.
Can not be ignored and jewelry made of blackened silver. For their creation, the masters had to work hard, because it took several days to make each of them.
Ready-made "lace" jewelry was almost weightless. Some of them had a cut made of natural stones.
All products from Kubachi silver are created manually. There are masters who think through their masterpieces independently: from sketching to creating engraving. Some talented craftsmen team up with others. Then everyone is engaged in performing only one or more operations. In any case, the completed product has a mark on which specialists can determine the name of the master who created the thing.
Of course, any person wants to receive such beauty as a gift. Many consider it an excellent decision to invest their money in the purchase of products or jewelry made of Kubachi silver. Indeed, every year the demand for them is growing, respectively, the price is rising.
Advantages and disadvantages
Kubachi silver has many advantages:
- masters use the technique of embossing and engraving in their work;
- the assortment is simply huge;
- craftsmen are very attentive to the manufacture of all elements of silverware;
- with the help of unique products you can emphasize your status in society, as well as show your impeccable taste.
If we talk about the shortcomings, then there are not so many. It should be noted that silver is a softer material than gold. For this reason products can be damaged. For some people, silver jewelry causes allergic reactions. It is strictly forbidden to wear such jewelry.
If silver is not coated with a special coating, products may turn black or oxidize.
Variety of products
Kubachin masters put their whole soul into their work. Therefore, their products are famous all over the world. Among them it is worth noting table silver. Such dishes are something unique. Devices are suitable for any situation. The main thing is to choose for yourself everything you need.
Consider the most popular things.
- Tea or coffee sets that delight everyone. They include not only cups and saucers, but also sugar bowls or oilers of an unusual shape. In some cases, only cup holders that are used to serve tea are included.
- Glasses and carafe for serving various drinks.
- Table knives, spoons and forks.
- Trays considered a traditional household item in the East.
- Samovars. Such a miracle was used both as an independent product, and as part of a set equipped with cups and saucers for drinking tea.
For those who like to smoke a cigarette, the craftsmen did blackened silver ashtrays or cigarette cases. In some cases, even whole smoking kitsmade in one style.
Weapons were also created for collectors unique products. You can buy not only swords or sabers, but also scimitars or daggers. If finances allow, then you should pay attention to traditional seven-piece weapon sets. Each of them has a gold insert.
Jewelry made of blackened silver is also quite diverse.Among them it is worth noting rings, earrings, necklaces or bracelets. They can be made of pure silver or be supplemented with precious stones. They make a special impression various sets made in one style. They amaze with the filigree work of the masters and, of course, require large financial investments.
To summarize, we can say that products from Kubachinsky silver is a standard of beauty and perfection. Masters from Dagestan do not reveal all the secrets, because they can transmit their knowledge and secrets only by inheritance. Due to their uniqueness and the painstaking work of carvers, products are incredibly popular even today.
You will find out even more interesting information about Kubachi jewelry in the next video.
