Rare Woods in Iranian Marquetry

Iran’s diversity of native and imported trees provides a rich foundation for marquetry.

Ebony, nearly black, is used for strong lines and contrast; jujube offers red-brown tones; walnut brings classic grain; maple and boxwood serve lighter surfaces; yew, juniper, and barberry add distinctive tonalities.

In some works, such as “Surah Al-Tawhid (Shamsa)”, camel bone is combined with ebony to create visual and symbolic contrast.

Knowing these materials helps the viewer understand why each handmade marquetry piece is unique: no two trees share the same grain and colour.