NÊRMÎN TARIQ

Cairo – Egyptians have used lanterns for centuries. Surely, the forms of lanterns have changed in time. Since the Fatimid dynasty, the Egyptians have used the lanterns to greet Ramadan, light up streets, and to challenge the darkness. But beyond all these rituals, the production of lanterns is a traditional craft in Egypt.

She produces lanterns for mosques

Kerîman Zêydan is a 25-year-old accessory designer. She began to produce lanterns for Ramadan because she gives great importance to Islamic architecture. Actually, she graduated from the faculty of education but she couldn’t find any jobs. In 2013, she turned her house into a jewelry workshop and began to produce lanterns, lambs for the domes of historical mosques in Egypt. Kerîman Zêydan had training for a long time to learn this art.

“The lanterns can be used for years”

 Kerîman Zêydan stated that producing lanterns is a very old culture in Egypt, “I use copper and brass alloy to make the lanterns. In this way, I produce very good quality lanterns. Those who buy these lanterns can use them for years. In the beginning, I draw the design of the lantern and then I take it to my workshop to cut and polish the copper. I then shape the lantern and unite its parts.”

“I send them to many countries”

For Kerîman Zêydan, producing the lanterns is enjoyable and productive but the high price of raw materials is a problem for her. “If you produce handmade products, you have to work for hours. I produce lanterns not only for Ramadan but also for children’s lanterns,” Kerîman Zêydan said she also sold the lanterns to many countries.

“My goal is to expand my workshop”

Kerîman Zêydan wants to produce more lanterns to light the darkness all around the world. She also believes that Egyptian culture and heritage could spread in this way. “I want to spread the culture of Egypt by expanding my workshop and to provide employment opportunities.”