Today, the shanasheel tradition in Iraq is witnessing a creative revival, thanks to artist Saad Mubarak. For decades, he has tirelessly protected this disappearing architectural art. Moreover, Mubarak, who hails from Hilla, creates wooden window facades entirely by hand, deliberately avoiding machines.
From an early age, Mubarak developed deep admiration for shanasheel tradition in Iraq. His childhood surroundings, filled with elegant wooden facades, sparked his passion. Families like the Shallahs and Qazwana once lived in such homes in Baghdad, Basra, and Hilla.
Instead of using modern CNC tools, Mubarak insists on traditional methods. “I avoid machines because they strip away the soul of the piece,” he said. Some of his works take more than a month to finish. Time and care define each piece.
Historically, shanasheel adorned the homes of influential Iraqis. Basra’s Nazarán area and old Baghdad were once filled with them. Today, Mubarak aims to restore their cultural presence. He sees these designs as a thread uniting Basra, Baghdad, Hilla, and Mosul.
So far, Mubarak has worked across nearly all of Iraq. However, he has not yet created a major work in his hometown. “I only have one small piece in Hilla,” he said. “Most of my art lives outside the governorate.”
His impact, nevertheless, reaches beyond Iraq. His works have appeared in France, Australia, and Jordan. In Amman, he created six large murals. In Mosul, he restored an entire house over one year. This achievement won praise from Mosul’s governor.
Though he avoids art competitions, Mubarak proudly takes part in international festivals. Most recently, he presented his work at the Babylon International Festival. Yet, he remains focused on one goal—making a masterpiece in Hilla.
Looking forward, shanasheel tradition in Iraq may flourish again through his vision. Mubarak’s art bridges past and future, offering Iraqis a lasting connection to their heritage. His dream of restoring cultural identity remains firmly rooted in his hometown.
As interest in traditional art returns, Mubarak’s dedication ensures that the shanasheel tradition in Iraq will not fade but continue to inspire.
