Determination of the Current Status of Meerschaum Processing in the Context of the Professional Orientation and Approaches of the Masters

Traditional crafts are elements of cultural heritage that transfer the techniques and mastery of a region they are performed, to the next generations. Craftsmanship of meerschaum carving is one of the important cultural heritages in Eskişehir which is the main region of meerschaum resources. The structural properties of meerschaum’s being ideal for making products functional and aesthetic is the main factor in identifying this stone with Eskişehir. Meerschaum carving, like other craft branches, has lost its prevalence and value because of the results of industrialization of handmade products. The aim of this study is to identify current status of meerschaum craftmanship by evaluating the craftsmen's professional experiences and orientations. In this context, the craftsmen's perspectives towards technology and innovation in design and technique were evaluated. In addition, institutional structures that cover meerschaum craftsmanship in Eskişehir has been researched and the importance of meerschaum in terms of local tourism has been examined. Within the scope of the study, interviews were conducted with meerschaum craftsmen who carry their jobs in Odunpazarı district of Eskişehir, and visits were made to the souvenir shops of meerschaum. All data were recorded with tape recording, photographs and videos.