ABOUT US
Established in 2022 by Safak Avci Van Maele, Puduhepa is a small family-sized business situated in the picturesque village of Herborn, Luxembourg, conveniently close to the borders of Germany, France, and Belgium.
Specializing in the artistry of hand-loomed fabrics, we take pride in sourcing our materials directly from Safak's homeland of Turkey. With its rich heritage in handwoven textiles, natural color palettes, and a renewed commitment to organic cotton production, Turkish Anatolia serves as the wellspring of inspiration for our unique and thoughtfully crafted offerings.
KANDIRA BEZI
Kandira Bezi, a vintage hand-loomed fabric hailing from the charming Black Sea town of Kandira, is renowned for its exceptional strength and durability. Traditionally employed for crafting boat sails, serving as decorative pieces, and cherished components of dowry chests, this fabric carries a rich history.
Its origins trace back to the era of Roman rule in Anatolia, where local artisans followed traditional methods, blending cotton and linen flax seamlessly. This artisanal practice endured through the centuries until the 1980s when the Turkish government prohibited the cultivation of linen. This decree marked the end of a two-thousand-year-old tradition that has since, regrettably, faded into obscurity.
All our Kandira Bezi pieces date back to the 1970s and 80s, showcasing the authenticity and heritage of this extraordinary fabric. In recognition of its cultural significance, the fabric received protected geographical indication status in 2018.
NEEDLE LACE SCARVES
Yazma scarves, adorned with intricate Oya needle lace, held a prominent place in the dowry chests of brides in the Mediterranean region. The art of this lacing technique has been passed down through generations, with some claiming its roots reach as far back as the 8th century. Mastering this craft is a particularly challenging endeavor, requiring skill and dedication.
The needle lace designs, evolving over centuries, have transformed into a kind of secret language among Anatolian women. Each color combination and form serves as a unique representation of various flowers, deeply infused with symbolism pertaining to the wearer's emotional state, family dynamics, and marital matters.
In our collection, these Yazma scarves are estimated to be approximately 50 to 60 years old. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted, utilizing only natural fabrics and dyes. This not only adds to their authenticity but also reflects the commitment to preserving the traditional artistry that has gracefully withstood the test of time.
PUDUHEPA
Safak chose to name her brand as a tribute to the renowned Hittite queen and priestess, Puduhepa. Alongside her husband, King Hattushili III, she held sway over the ancient civilization, a reign that coincided with the Egyptian rule around 1200 BC. Notably, it was Puduhepa and her husband who affixed their seal to the world's first recorded international peace treaty.
Queen Puduhepa stands out as one of the most influential women in the Ancient Near East, serving as a key representative of her people. Renowned for their religious tolerance and commitment to gender equality, Puduhepa's era is marked by progressive ideals that echo through the corridors of history. Her legacy resonates as a beacon of wisdom and diplomacy in a bygone era.