Artisan portraits
Artijaan collaborates with over 40 Afghan artisans, 540 small and medium enterprises, and 20 women’s networks across rural Afghanistan.
Here are some of their stories:
Shazia
Jewelry designers, Kabul
With an eye for detail, Shazia and Nasrin love designing delicate hammered gold jewelry fitted with Afghanistan’s native gemstones like lapis lazuli, agate, and tourmaline. Every order supports their work and contributes to empowering local artisans to preserve traditional craftsmanship.
Their message to you:
“Our inspiration comes from ancient monuments or objects from our daily life. We hope you enjoy these thoughtfully designed and expertly crafted pieces.”
Explore some of Shazia's craftsmanship.
Simple yet sophisticated, the Sol Hoops go where you go. Our artisans twisted the metal just so to get the perfect amount of shimmer. Dress them up or down, this pair of hoops is versatile and ready to be worn anywhere.
Note: All products are handmade making each piece a unique creation. There may be slight variations between the product you see and the one you receive.
Province: Kabul
Materials: Silver, 24k Silver gold plated
The Solar Compass Necklace was created as a tribute to the sun as a defining force in our lives. A force that nourishes and guides us from one day to the next.
Note: All products are handmade making each piece a unique creation. There may be slight variations between the product you see and the one you receive.
Province: Kabul
Materials: Silver, Gold-plated silver and Lapis
Dimensions: Diameter pendant ≈2.2cm - ≈0.9”, length chain ≈50cm - ≈20”,
Roya
Embroiderer, Kabul
This hand embroidered piece is designed by Roya, our incredibly talented embroidery partner.
We collaborate with her to design unique pieces that are then made by one of the 1,000 women who are part of our networks across rural Afghanistan.
With your purchase, you help support these women makers.
Explore some of Roya's craftsmanship.
Nasrullah, Obaid & Khairullah
Glass blower, Herat
At 5 years old, Nasrullah began blowing glass, joining his family’s 200-year-old business. A once thriving industry has been shattered by decades of war and a struggling market. Nasrullah, now 65, is part of a critical effort to keep this delicate practice alive, joined by his sons Obaid and Khairullah.
Their message to you:
“Thank you for helping us keep the art of glass-blowing alive. It’s our passion and livelihood to create this piece you now own.”
Explore some of Nazrullah's craftsmanship.
In the western province of Herat, the tradition of glassblowing has been active for more than 2,000 years. The techniques used in glassmaking have been passed down from generation to generation and few craftsmen remain who possess the skills needed to finesse molten hot glass into delicate pieces of glassware.
Utilizing wood-fired clay kilns, craftsmen melt glass shards into a viscous substance that can then be manipulated to create the azure blue, emerald green glassware and others that is well-known in Afghanistan and farther afield.
Each piece is handblown resulting in delightfully unique shapes. No two are alike.
Craft: Glass blowing
Province: Herat
Shapes: Stemmed glass, Round glass, Round glass with grooves
Dimensions: 10-12cm height (≈4”)
In the western province of Herat, the tradition of glassblowing has been active for more than 2,000 years. The techniques used in glassmaking have been passed down from generation to generation and few craftsmen remain who possess the skills needed to finesse molten hot glass into delicate pieces of glassware.
Utilizing wood-fired clay kilns, craftsmen melt glass shards into a viscous substance that can then be manipulated to create the azure blue, emerald green glassware and others that is well-known in Afghanistan and farther afield.
Each piece is handblown resulting in delightfully unique shapes. No two are alike.
Craft: Glass blowing
Province: Herat
Shapes: Stemmed glass, Round glass, Round glass with grooves
Dimensions: 10-12cm height (≈4”) for glasses
Dorsa
Textile designer, Kabul
Dorsa began sewing at the age of 13 and is the creative mind behind Artijaan’s upcycled coat collection. Using materials sourced from antique shops in Kabul, every piece is like a puzzle, with a single coat taking up to a month to complete.
Her message to you:
“I like to create pieces and imagine what the customers will feel like in them. It brings me a lot of joy to design clothes that will be worn all over the world.”
Explore some of Dorsa's craftsmanship.
Abdul
Ceramicist, Istalif
Abdul Wahab is one of our two ceramicists from Istalif, a village renowned for its distinctive pottery. With over 40 years of experience, Abdul represents the fourth generation of potters in his family.
Their message to you:
“Whatever I make, I do it with love and passion. It makes me proud to know that my products are being used by people who will cherish them.”
Explore some of Abdul's craftsmanship.
Illuminate your space with the whimsical charm of our Istalif Candle Holder. Each piece features hand-painted motifs inspired by the serene beauty of Istalif’s landscape. Whether adorning your dinner table as a captivating centerpiece or adding a touch of allure to your fireplace mantle, this piece effortlessly infuses your home with warmth and style.
Note: All products are handmade making each piece a unique creation. There may be slight variations between the product you see and the one you receive.
Province: Istalif
Ideal for serving soups, salads, or side dishes, our Istalif Ceramic Bowl combines functionality with artistic flair. Its simple yet elegant design adds a touch of sophistication to any table setting, making it a versatile addition to your dining repertoire.
Note: All products are handmade making each piece a unique creation. There may be slight variations between the product you see and the one you receive.
Province: Istalif
Usman, Mohammad & Mayel
Woodcarvers, Kabul, Afghanistan
Our three woodcarving partners trained with Turquoise Mountain, an NGO that equips artisans with skills to revive historic buildings in their local community, before launching their own production business.
They take great pride in preserving Afghanistan's woodworking heritage
More stories waiting to be unveiled to you.
Nasrin, Hamida, Ramzia, Khadira, Salma, Husnia, Sodaba, Semin, Mahira, Shamila, Shamshad, Mahpaikar, Adela, Khair, Begom, Pari, Mahrokh, Diljan, Rohafza, Zohra, Nahida, Bakhtowar, Berarbakht, Najeeba, Khatira, Aziza, Sharbano, Nikbakht, Nazanin, Zainab, Raheema, Kisharar and many more!