Iran's Hatem art is one of the traditional Iranian handicrafts. Hatem is a kind of inlay art with a long history in Iran. This art is characterized by the patterns created by combining materials such as fine wood, bone, horn, metal and stone on wooden surfaces.
Geometric patterns are often used in the art of Hatem and they are handcrafted with precision. Traditionally, the materials used in the patterns are cut into thin strips and then joined together to create a mosaic-like appearance. Stars, geometric shapes and flower motifs are generally used in the patterns obtained by combining these strips.
Hatem is especially used for making decorative and useful items such as boxes, jewelry boxes, frames, game boards and musical instruments.