Emirati Photographer Captures Rare Glimpse of 250-Year-Old Coffee Preservation Tool in Ras Al Khaimah”
In a remarkable revelation, Emirati photographer Khaled Laqyous has unveiled a centuries-old coffee preservation tool in Deira Al Sint, Ras Al Khaimah. Contrary to a factory, this remarkable find sheds light on a unique piece of history—a tool that has been used for over 250 years to preserve and serve coffee in the heart of the Emirate.
The coffee preservation tool, crafted from white earth known as yaz, showcases an intriguing design with a front opening and an upper opening in a circular shape. Burned in a fire and meticulously kneaded until hardened, this ancient artifact stands as a testament to the enduring tradition of Arab hospitality.
In an interview with CNN Arabic, Laqyous, boasting 29 years of photography experience, emphasized the significance of coffee in Arab culture. He remarked, “Coffee is an authentic style of hospitality among the Arabs. Its name has spread everywhere, and the smell of roasted coffee has begun to waft from copper pails, and before that, pottery.”
The Abu Dhabi Culture website provides context to the tools collectively known as “ma’ameel” used in coffee preparation, with this specific tool adding a unique dimension to the coffee-serving customs. It becomes evident that the tool played a crucial role in preserving and serving coffee, becoming an integral part of the daily life and heritage passed down through generations.
Arabic coffee serving traditions and etiquette further amplify the cultural significance of this ancient tool. From the meticulous pouring techniques to the order of serving guests, each aspect reflects the precision and respect embedded in the ritual of serving Arabic coffee.
Through the lens of Khaled Laqyous, this singular coffee preservation tool becomes a window into a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the intricate traditions of Ras Al Khaimah’s coffee culture—one that has withstood the test of time for more than two centuries.
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