06/06/2018
In the spotlight "The Hatshepsut Factory for Alabaster"
One of the classic souvenirs to bring back from Egypt is something made from alabaster. This is a soft rock that is carved by hand to produce all manner of shapes, from pots to statues, paperweights to lampstands.
There are many small alabaster factories (more like workshops) on the lower slopes of the hills in which the Valley of the Kings is located
One of the best and well know is the Hatshepsut Factory for Allabaster in the Hatshepsut street.
The Hatshepsut Factory is beautifully decorated and easy to spot from the street
Hatshepsut Factory was opened in 1979 and is one of the oldest institutions specialized in preserving the heritage Pharaonic featuring the best craftsmen and artists specializing in industry of Alabaster stone.
They make vases, dishes, and sculptures ect from alabaster, basalt, and other materials for example from granit, basalt, sandstone and limestone.
Alabaster has been used in Egypt for thousands of years, dating back to
the time of the Pharaohs. Whether you’re visiting an ancient temple or taking a stroll through Khan El Khalili,
it’s easy to spot the many uses that alabaster is known for, including
household items and ritual objects.
Alabaster comes in white, brown, and green, and the merchandise came in all shapes and sizes. Real alabaster (as opposed to machine-made fakes), is thin enough that light shines through it,
When you visit the Hatshepsut Factory for Alabaster they wil give you an demonstration how alabaster and basalt are made into jars and figurines and how limestone tablets are carved with hieroglyphs and painted for tourists’ enjoyment.
Followed by a drink and opportunity to shop at their store.
The owner Ashraf Mohamed will also educate you on machine-made versus hand-carved alabaster as well as on the ways that some companies fool tourists by making soapstone or wax look like alabaster.
They can also shipping what you need by DHL
Hatshepsut Factory for Alabaster
Hatshepsut Street - Westbank Luxor - Egypt
Mobile is 00201003008007
Dare to be different come to Egypt where it all begins.
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