Ebru in Germany

Marbling (ebru) is the art of creating floating patterns on a water-based surface mixed with natural thickeners. Pigments are sprinkled or brushed onto the water and carefully shaped before being lifted onto paper or fabric.

Originating in Central Asia and spreading via Persia, marbling took on a distinctive identity in Ottoman lands. It became an indispensable companion to calligraphy, bookbinding and manuscript decoration.

Natural pigments, ox-gall and carrageenan solution form the basis of traditional ebru. Artists employ combs, awls and brushes made from horsehair and rose stems to craft delicate motifs.