Visually Impaired Craftsman Captivates Visitors with Handmade Falcon Nets

Khalaf Al-Anzi, a skilled craftsman with a visual impairment, is captivating visitors to the International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition with his handmade falcon trapping nets. Al-Anzi, who has been crafting these nets for over 30 years, demonstrates his expertise at the exhibition, held in Malham, north of Riyadh, from October 3 to 12. He inherited this craft from his father and grandfathers, and continues to pass it on to the next generation in Turaif, Northern Borders region. With the assistance of his sons, he became a regular participant in falconry-related events throughout the Kingdom, especially during the falcon migration season, in the fall. The process of creating falcon trapping nets is meticulous. Al-Anzi said he uses silk threads and thin nylon wires to handcraft these lightweight nets, which weigh only a few grams. The nets are attached to pigeons or jerboas (hopping desert rodents) as bait to attract falcons. It takes Al-Anzi over half an hour to create a single net. Al-Anzi said hi s handmade nets are highly sought after by Saudi falconers, who would often visit him at home to buy them. He also said that he ships his nets to falconers and enthusiasts in the Gulf countries, relying on his craft as a primary source of income. The International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition features a section dedicated to arts and handicrafts, including a heritage weaving corner, where Saudi craftsmen and women showcase traditional products. Source: Saudi Press Agency