Egypt has long been a hub for various cultural and artistic expressions, and Egyptians have always demonstrated notions of openness, acceptance and tolerance towards all artistic forms, and have as well integrated expatriated arts with original, local elements. Takfit or Niello is a clear evidence of Egyptians’ ability to stand the test of time and well-preserve such forms of tangible heritage.
The craft of Takfit or Niello is considered as one of the most prominent form of metal-engraving, and one of the oldest artistic forms known to Egyptians as it dates back to the Mamluks era. For instance, artists have excelled in Takfeet as they were able to transform a cheap metal such as copper, into a precious piece of art, using primitive materials as hammers.
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization organized an exclusive, live workshop to handcraft of Takfit, in the presence of one of the pioneer families who worked in such profession for generations, and sought to develop it, preserve it and promote it.
The event has witnessed a remarkable interaction among the museum’s national and international visitors, especially the youth, who were keen to follow up on the live work and document it on social media.
