Iran’s Chaleshtar: Centre for traditional locksmithing

Ghoflsazi (locksmithing) is a century-old profession that is still practiced in the Iranian city of Chaleshtar in the neighborhood of Shahr-e Kord in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province.

Experts believe that the artistic values of Ghoflsazi (locksmithing) are more significant than its industrial aspects.

A typical Chaleshtar padlock consists of 13 parts and is usually made of copper, iron, brass, and iron cast.

In Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, the padlocks were more used as means of protection for objects such as saddlebags or Namakdan (a kind of handmade satchel). In addition to protection, people used some padlocks as talismans.

Today, traditional padlocks of Chaleshtar are made in tiny sizes and worn as fashion jewelry.

MM/AG