Skilled artisan in Lebanon maintains age-old practice of manufacturing tarboosh hats
In the heart of Tripoli, Lebanon, resides Mohammed Al-Shaar, a craftsman who keeps alive the centuries-old tradition of tarboosh hat making. The tarboosh, a traditional felt hat associated with Ottoman influence, once held significant cultural and social importance in Lebanon and much of the Arab world.
During the late Ottoman period, the tarboosh became particularly common in Lebanon, serving as a marker of elite or official stature. Made of maroon, black, or green felt, the tarboosh hats crafted by Al-Shaar often feature floral motifs or the Lebanese national emblem.
Al-Shaar's connection to the tarboosh goes back to his grandfather, who passed on the skills to him. For 25 years, he has been meticulously crafting these hats, each one a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Lebanon.
However, the tarboosh's status has changed over time. Nowadays, it is primarily seen as a traditional item or an appealing novelty for tourists. The decline in its common use can be attributed to modern changes in dress and political symbolism, where other forms of identity markers have taken greater prominence.
Recent crises, including the 2020 port explosion in Beirut and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, have further impacted tourism in Lebanon, leading to a significant drop in sales for Al-Shaar. His once bustling business now sees only 4 or 5 sales a month, a stark contrast to the 50 he used to make before the crisis.
Despite the decline in business, Al-Shaar has no plans to close his shop or stop working. His soul, he says, is linked to the craft of tarboosh making, and he feels a deep sense of responsibility to preserve this legacy.
Knocking someone's tarboosh off was once considered offensive, reflecting its importance as a symbol of social status. Today, the tarboosh remains a cultural artifact, a reminder of Lebanon’s historical and social heritage, particularly during traditional or cultural events.
Al-Shaar's recent customers include music and dance troops, religious figures who wear the tarboosh covered with a turban, and those seeking a piece of Lebanon's history. As the last known tarboosh craftsman in Lebanon, Al-Shaar's work continues to resonate with those who appreciate the rich tapestry of Lebanon's cultural heritage.
[1] Tarboosh: The Traditional Hat of the Middle East and North Africa. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/topic/tarboosh
[2] Tarboosh: A Symbol of Ottoman-Era Identity and Social Status in Lebanon. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.historyoflebanon.com/tarboosh-hat-lebanon/
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