Community of Istalif

Afghanistan

Year(s) attended: 2008

Jindhag Foundation

Ceramic Pottery

The Afghan village of Istalif produces pottery with methods virtually unchanged for over a thousand years. No modern technology is used as clay is collected locally and thrown on a wheel spun by hand before drying in its natural state and glazed. Istalif pottery includes vases, flower pots, candlestick holders, ewers, plates, fish designs and other animal figures. Most of these unique pieces boast dazzling glazes ranging through turquoise and green. The Jindhag Foundation supports and preserves the cultural diversity of traditional and indigenous people around the world.