Oman, even in ancient times, is strategically located along the ancient trade routes which is why historical records proved that the country has facilitated the exchange of pottery techniques with neighboring civilizations, fostering diversity and evolution in Omani pottery.
Since pottery has been discovered in the archaeological sites of Bat, Al-Khutm, and Al-Ayn, many researchers had been sharing that ancient pottery-making techniques reflect the ingenuity of early Omani civilizations.
These artisans, through methods like coiling and molding, crafted pottery that not only served practical purposes but also showcased their cultural identity. Eventually, as civilisation progressed, influences from Islamic traditions further enriched the craft, introducing intricate designs and glazed surfaces that became emblematic of Omani pottery.
The history of pottery in Oman details a rich cultural heritage and through the build up of knowledge, it also demonstrates artistic evolution, spanning millennia. Thankfully, there are still many places all over the country that managed to save a lot of the techniques in pottery including the historic city of Bahla.
To ensure the further preservation of Oman's millenia-old craft, significant efforts are underway to revive the craft of pottery through workshops, courses, and various projects.
This was the initial goal of Taleed pottery shop. Its founders, Marwa Al Hasni and her partner Waleed Al Shriqi, have been dedicated to reintroducing the art of pottery to Omanis and reinstating its cultural significance.
The journey began when Marwa completed her higher education in accounting and sought to explore a fulfilling creative outlet. After experimenting with various activities, she found herself drawn to pottery. Her interest was further piqued during a month-long workshop conducted by Musallam Al Abri from the SMEs Development Authority.
It was during this workshop that Marwa realized pottery was her true calling. With the support of Said Al Adawi, the owner of Oman Handicrafts Centre, who provided her with a suitable workspace, Marwa began honing her craft. As demand for her unique creations grew, she and Waleed Al Shriqi decided to establish their own pottery business, Taleed, in 2022.
Due to increasing orders, Taleed expanded to a larger shop in Bahla Fort. The name "Taleed" in Arabic refers to legacies inherited from ancestors, a fitting homage considering Bahla's historical significance in pottery production, boasting numerous pottery sites and workshops dating back centuries.
Furthermore, Bahla Fort holds immense historical importance, narrating tales of ancient Oman and showcasing the beauty of Omani arts, particularly its architectural marvels. Recognized on the World Heritage List for its extraordinary architecture, Bahla Fort serves as a testament to Oman's rich cultural heritage.
Taleed has conducted numerous workshops in Bahla, Nizwa, and Muscat, training over 100 children and 50 adults. Additionally, it participated in the Sharjah Omani Week Exhibition in the United Arab Emirates.
The Taleed pottery shop comprises two sections: the products section and the workshops section. The products section showcases the pieces in an aesthetically pleasing manner for sale, while the workshops section provides a space for visitors and trainees to engage in pottery practice, offering a unique opportunity to experience the charm of this art form firsthand.
What sets Taleed apart is its innovative approach to pottery, incorporating colors and designs that diverge from the traditional monochrome style. Each piece is uniquely crafted for the shop, ensuring its exclusivity.
However, like any venture, Taleed has faced challenges along the way. The lack of a dedicated space for pottery production has necessitated moving pieces to different sites for firing, resulting in fragility and significant time and effort lost during the process.
Despite these challenges, the efforts to preserve and promote this handicraft offer a remarkable opportunity to inspire individuals with talents and encourage their further development.
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