Oman Wires It's all about Oman
Used by fishermen as nicely as traders in the previous to export distinct products, these conventional dhows are as significantly a national symbol of Oman as the khanjar. Today, most craftsmen either construct large boats on private orders or just miniature ones as souvenirs.
Muscat Daily caught up with artisan, Mubarak bin Ali al Tarshi from the wilayat of Musannah who has been into the enterprise for more than 3 decades now. “This is my tenth year at the Muscat Festival. A lot of curious visitors come to me and sit beside me to see me work. Dhows are an integral part of Omani culture and most visitors want to carry back a souvenir that is unique.”
Tarshi has been practising the craft for the previous 35 years and apart from miniature dhows, he also tends to make other household products. “All these items are made by hand right from the scratch,” stated Tarshi pointing at his functions.
The distinct geometric pattern appears fairly easy but a single realises the intricacies of the function only when you see the method. “This legacy was handed over to us by our forefathers and I want to preserve it. If done with dedication and focus one can make profits out of it.”
Tarshi stated he tends to make about 15 miniature boats in a month. “The traditional designs remain the most popular with buyers. The products at my stall are made of either palm fronds or imported wood. You will see most of these items in a traditional Omani household too.”
The products at Tarshi’s stall are priced in between RO10 and RO30.
Information Source: Muscat Daily
