Roshan Gallery
The art of Qalamkari—literally meaning “pen-work”—has a history in Iran that dates back over 700 years to the Ilkhanid era, during the Mongol rule and the influx of Chinese printed fabrics into Iranian markets. In response to these imported textiles, Iranian artisans began painting intricate designs directly onto fabric, likely marking the birth of this unique craft.
Originally created using hand-drawn pens (qalam), these artworks gave the craft its name. However, as demand grew and hand-painting proved both labor-intensive and costly, carved wooden blocks gradually replaced pens, allowing for broader production while maintaining artistic integrity.
In recent years, with a renewed public interest in preserving cultural heritage, Roshan Gallery has sought to revitalize this traditional art form for a contemporary audience. By introducing modern color palettes and unique, non-repetitive patterns, we aim to adapt this centuries-old technique to suit modern tastes and interiors—while remaining rooted in its rich legacy. May the timeless beauty and wisdom of our artistic ancestors continue to enrich the aesthetics of contemporary life.
