Sadu: Women’s stories and artistic heritage

Sharjah 24: Sadu is not just a craft for producing traditional woven textiles featuring embroidery and weaving techniques; it is a deeply rooted art form that holds significant cultural and emotional value. Found across many Arab countries, particularly in the Gulf region, Sadu is crafted using camel hair, goat hair, and sheep wool. However, beyond its functional and decorative purposes, this craft carries secrets and stories that have accompanied women throughout history, both in Bedouin and urban communities. During Sharjah Heritage Days, we had the opportunity to uncover some of these hidden aspects.

Sadu: A heritage passed down through generations

Nawal Ibrahim Al-Atiyya, a skilled artisan specializing in Sadu weaving, participated in Sharjah Heritage Days as part of the Kuwait Heritage Association. With over three decades of experience, she explained that Arab women typically begin learning Sadu weaving at the age of seven, once they develop awareness and dexterity. Within a short period, they can weave large hair tents that provide protection from the scorching sun and cold desert nights.

Types and unique patterns of Sadu

According to Al-Atiyya, Sadu weaving features various distinctive styles and designs, including:

• Flat Sadu

• Plain weave

• Striped Sadu

• Al-Awaina, resembling an eye

• Al-Habiba, shaped like small grains

• Duroos Al-Khail, inspired by horse teeth

• Al-Mudhakhir

• Al-Uwayrijan, characterized by wavy lines

One of the most intricate Sadu patterns is called "Ishjaraa", a highly complex design that requires exceptional weaving skills. In addition to its artistic significance, Sadu carries deep personal and cultural meanings for women, as Al-Atiyya revealed two of its hidden secrets.

The secrets of women in Sadu

Al-Atiyya explained: "Arab women face various challenges and hardships, especially in the desert. Sadu serves as an emotional and psychological outlet, allowing them to weave hidden symbols into the fabric, expressing their thoughts, emotions, and struggles. These symbols hold personal meanings that only the weaver herself understands. So, when you see the intricate motifs in Sadu, know that they carry untold stories, emotions, and reflections of a woman's inner world."

She further revealed a second secret: "A skilled Sadu artisan can always recognize her own work, even if it is among hundreds of similar pieces. This is because she deliberately inserts a tiny, imperceptible flaw into the weave—something only she can detect. This intentional imperfection does not affect the quality of the final product but acts as a hidden signature, allowing her to distinguish her creation from others with ease."