Weapon engraving

The skill of inlaying and engraving weapons has a long history, probably going back to the time when people first began using weapons. Even in antiquity, objects, ornaments and jewellery were made both for practical use and to demonstrate the style, taste and social and financial standing of privileged classes. Craftsmen also wished to give the weapons they made an individual character and style.

Weapon inlay began with the insertion of brass and copper shapes, such as stars, dots and circles, into wooden parts. Mother-of-pearl from shells and non-ferrous metal rivets were also applied to weapons. Semi-precious and precious stones were frequently used for inlay as well.

Bulgarian craftsmen continued working with this technology until the 1990s, when Svetlozar Raychanov of Sopot changed the approach. He established a new ornamental style, introducing engraved exotic animals and fantastic creatures, hunting scenes and floral motifs. This marked the beginning of the 'Sopot school' of weapon decoration. Raychanov became a pioneer with his rich style and highly expressive works, which are now held in collections both in Bulgaria and abroad. His creations have been shown at prestigious exhibitions and are distinguished by their artistic quality and precise execution.