Sarban: A Fusion of Iranian Architecture and Leather Craftsmanship

Aida Mehranfar's Award-Winning Design Celebrates Cultural Harmony

The Sarban leather bag is a remarkable embodiment of Iranian heritage, meticulously handcrafted to mirror the architectural elegance of the Sarban minaret. Mehranfar's design is distinguished by its geometric shapes and the singular brick color that echoes the minaret's facade. The use of natural camel leather not only enhances the bag's durability but also symbolizes the minaret's historical role as a beacon for travelers and caravans. With dimensions of 23 cm x 30 cm x 12 cm and a weight of approximately 613 grams, the bag is a testament to Mehranfar's dedication to creating a product that is as practical as it is symbolic.

The creation of the Sarban bag was a meticulous process, starting with hand-drawn designs and culminating in a series of manual patterns. These patterns, crafted through trial and error, were eventually transferred onto leather, cut, and assembled to achieve the final form. The bag's design not only showcases the designer's technical skills but also her commitment to preserving and promoting ancient Iranian art on a global stage.

Interaction with the Sarban bag goes beyond its tactile qualities. The design invites users to engage with Iranian culture, as architecture is a significant facet of the nation's artistic heritage. By integrating architectural inspiration into the bag's design, Mehranfar forges a connection with users, inviting them to carry a piece of Iranian history with them.

Developed over a two-week period in December 2020, the Sarban project was a labor of love, born in Iran. The design journey involved extensive research, including online studies and fieldwork, to capture the essence of ancient Iranian architectural structures. The Sarban Minaret was chosen for its cultural significance and its embodiment of peace, a theme that Mehranfar was passionate about conveying through her design.

One of the greatest challenges faced during the design process was translating the brick forms of the minaret into a functional leather bag. Achieving this required a deep understanding of both architecture and leatherwork, as well as a commitment to handcrafting each element to reflect the original structure's intricacies. The result is a design that not only serves as a functional accessory but also as a medium for promoting peace and understanding among diverse cultures and religions.

With its roots firmly planted in the rich soil of Iranian culture, the Sarban bag is more than a mere fashion statement; it is a cultural artifact that carries a profound narrative. The minimalistic execution of the minaret's patterns on the bag ensures that the essence of the original structure is preserved, allowing users to appreciate the beauty and significance of Iranian art in their daily lives.

The Sarban design has been rightfully recognized with an Iron A' Fashion and Travel Accessories Design Award in 2024, a testament to its innovative integration of cultural heritage and design excellence. This accolade underscores the importance of designs that not only fulfill practical needs but also enrich our understanding of the world and its diverse cultures.