Marbling, or traditionally known as ebru art, is the process of transferring unique patterns obtained by shaping special paints sprinkled on the surface of water onto paper. This art, which developed during the Ottoman period, attracts great attention worldwide today. So, how is marbling (ebru) art made? Here are the subtleties of ebru art step by step:
Culture and History of Ebru Art
Ebru art has a deep-rooted history starting from Central Asia and extending to the Ottoman Empire. It developed in the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century and began to be used in book decorations and calligraphy. Ebru has been accepted as an important art form throughout history and has been carefully preserved by artists. Today, it has been registered by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
One of the most well-known masters of this art is Şebek Mehmet Efendi, who lived in the 17th century. Thanks to the path he opened, ebru developed in art workshops in Istanbul and has survived to the present day.
Materials Used in Marbling Art
Special materials are needed to make marbling. Here are the basic materials:
Garbage (Thickener): Used to thicken water.
Marbling Paints: Special paints made from natural pigments.
Gall (Bovine Bile): Allows the paints to spread on the surface of the water.
Boat: A water container where the paints are poured.
Brushes: Brushes made of horsehair are used.
Awl (Skewer Needle or Sticks): Used to create patterns.
Paper: Special types of paper that will transfer the pattern to the surface are preferred.
Step by Step Marbling (Marbling) Making
1. Water Preparation (Water with Tragacanth)
Water is the basis of marbling art. However, instead of ordinary water, tragacanth or other similar materials, which are thickeners, are added to the water to thicken it. Tragacanth water ensures that the paints remain on the surface.
2. Preparation of Paints
Ebru paints are made from natural pigments and are spread on the surface of the water by adding gall. The paints are sprinkled on the surface of the vessel with the help of brushes.
3. Creating Patterns
After the paints are sprinkled on the water, patterns are created with the help of an awl (thin stick) or a comb. Traditional ebru patterns are as follows:
Battal Ebru: Leaving the randomly sprinkled paints on the surface of the water without mixing.
Shal Ebru: Creating wavy patterns with a comb.
Telgit Ebru: Patterns made by moving the awl back and forth.
Light and Hatip Ebru: Special techniques that reveal artistic forms.
4. Transferring the Pattern to the Paper
The prepared pattern is carefully laid on special paper and transferred. After the paper has completely touched the water, it is carefully removed and left to dry.
5. Drying and Preservation
The ebru paper is left to dry. After the drying process is completed, the work can be varnished and protected if desired.
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Areas of Use of Ebru Art
Ebru art is used not only in art galleries but also in many areas of daily life:
Book Art: It was widely used in book decorations during the Ottoman period.
Combination with Calligraphy: Ebru art was used together with calligraphy to create special works of art.
Decorative Products: It is used in many decorative designs such as paintings, wall panels, notebook covers.
Fashion and Textile: In the modern design world, ebru patterns are also preferred in clothes and fabrics.
Ceramic and Glass Art: Unique patterns are created by applying them on glass and ceramic surfaces.
Things to Consider in Ebru Art
The consistency of the water used is very important. If it is too liquid or too dense, the pattern will not hold.
The gall ratio should be adjusted well so that the paints do not mix with each other.
The paper used should be of a type that absorbs the paint well.
When creating a pattern, focus should be on natural transitions instead of excessive confusion.
Benefits of Ebru Art
Spiritual Relaxation: It is a meditative art form and provides mental relaxation.
Improves Creativity: You can create your own original patterns.
Historical and Cultural Value: This art, which has come from the Ottoman Empire to the present day, is a cultural heritage.
Misconceptions about Ebru Art
Only professionals can do it: Ebru art can be learned and applied by people of all levels.
Only traditional patterns can be made: It is possible to create modern and original patterns.
It cannot be done without special materials: Some materials can be changed, but original materials are recommended for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it necessary to receive special training for Ebru art?
No, everyone can do this art when the basic techniques are learned.
2. Is Ebru paper different from normal paper?
Yes, Ebru papers are special papers that absorb paint better.
3. What kind of works can be made with Ebru art?
Book decorations, wall panels, paintings and many other decorative products can be produced.
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