The history of Jordanian traditional crafts

Traditional handicrafts in Jordan have been passed down over many generations, from a time when all Jordanians met their domestic needs by weaving their own rugs and making their own earthenware and utensils. A rich cultural melange of Arab and Islamic imagery is reflected in Jordanian crafts, which include handmade glass, earthenware, basket and rug weaving and embroidery. Crafts produced on a smaller scale include sand bottles, sculpture and silver jewellery.

There is no mistaking the fact that Jordan is a Kingdom steeped in history and culture. From the moment you arrive, you get a sense of its rich heritage; all around are remnants of ancient civilizations long since passed, yet they still remain, stamped into the very fabric of this amazing Kingdom and etched into the soul of the people who live here. 

There is no real tradition of artisanal crafts in Jordan. Historically people made what was needed by themselves  and did not trouble with organising it. Only recently has there been any attempt at this, largely to provide some sort of income for the rural women, many of them who live in the most complete poverty.