Openwork in Erzurum and Its Techniques

Abstract

Decoration arts are among the most important arts that add aesthetic dimension to goods in traditional arts. As a decorative art technique, openwork has been used in various ways for many years, especially in ceramics, weaving, wood and jewelery. Since the openwork technique is a punching or cutting process, this art is also called cutting / hole work. Erzurum is one of the provinces that gives examples of openwork jewelery. In Erzurum, especially in jewelery made with Oltu stone, the openwork technique is frequently used. The study, which focuses on the use of openwork in jewelry, processing and production techniques as a jewelry design, is a qualitative study and depends on descriptive analysis. In the study, the usage areas of openwork from history until today are explained and conceptual information about the openwork of Erzurum is given. As a result of the interview with Zarif Özmen, one of the openwork masters of Erzurum, application examples of openwork in jewelery has been shown in the study. In addition, the study also makes a scientific effort to carry traditional arts to future generations by presenting a historical analysis of the use of openwork in jewelry and by revealing the usage techniques and examples of this art. Finally, It is thought that the study will contribute to both cultural studies and traditional arts.