Help Us Document Assyrian Traditional Clothes

Assyrian folk garments or traditional clothes are tangible cultural assets that are rich in symbolism and constitute integral elements of the rich tapestry of Assyria’s cultural heritage. For many Assyrians, these garments are not simply functional or ornamental but are valued carriers of indigenous identity and continuity, as well as a form of cultural expression. Traditional garment making can be seen as a form of cultural inheritance, and thus, a product of intergenerational transmission, that is, knowledge and experiences that are passed down from generation to generation.

Project Details:

Garments of Assyria is the title of a forthcoming initiative spearheaded by ACSYA Inc. The objective of this initiative is to produce an e-book that shall serve as a visual repository— illustrating the rich tapestry of Assyria’s cultural heritage. This work shall present traditional articles of clothing, including embellishments, historical images, and diagrams. The images shall consist of professional studio photography, on-location imagery of indigenous Assyrians in their traditional environments, as well as museum-style shots of jewellery and other accessories. This project shall consist of three phases: acquisition, documentation, and publication. The final product shall be published online and will serve as a frame of reference for archivists, researchers, and traditional garment makers.

Click here to learn more about this valuable initiative and the risks posed to traditional Assyrian clothes.