BEYPAZARI (Ankara) – Ibrahim Atıcı, 66, the last saddler in Beypazarı district of Ankara, a craftsman who has been making saddles for 53 years, and a recipient of the ‘Living Human Treasures’ award, is now earning his living by making miniature saddles for decorative purposes, as the sale of traditional saddles has diminished.
‘Living Human Treasure’ Continues a Dying Craft
Ibrahim Atıcı received the ‘Living Human Treasures, Representatives of the Heritage Carried to the Future Award’ from President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at a ceremony held in Ankara in 2022. As Beypazarı’s last saddler, Atıcı dedicates his time to keeping this traditional craft alive. Having practiced his father’s profession for 53 years, Atıcı began making miniature saddles for use as decorative items in recent years due to the decline in conventional saddle sales.
The End of an Era: No Donkeys, No Saddlers
Atıcı, who states he is the last representative of this profession, lamented the changing times. “Saddles are no longer sold. I earn my living by making miniature saddles. There are no donkeys left to put saddles on, and no masters left to make saddles. I am the last master,” he said.
His dedication highlights the struggle of traditional artisans in adapting to modern demands while preserving their cultural heritage. The miniature saddles serve as a reminder of a bygone era, allowing a piece of history to remain relevant in contemporary society.
Local News from Ankara and Beyond
This story comes amidst other local developments in Ankara and surrounding regions, including the opening of a ‘glass mosque’ overlooking the sea for its first Tarawih prayer, a fine of 2 million 98 thousand lira issued by the Ministry to ASKI, and the joy of producers in Hatay due to water flowing into the Reyhanlı Dam. Other regional news includes a fatal car accident in Rize and renewable energy initiatives at Fraport TAV Antalya Airport.
The plight of craftsmen like Atıcı underscores the importance of cultural preservation and the challenges faced by those who strive to maintain traditional skills in a rapidly modernizing world. His miniature saddles, while a deviation from his original craft, ensure that the artistry and legacy of saddlery continue to exist.
Source: dha.com.tr
