Yemeni production originally started in 1661 in Safranbolu, now renowned for it historic homes. Safranbolu, which had a rich history of producing yemenis for Ottoman soldiers, also supplied yemenis for Turkish soldiers during the Turkish War of Independence. Once a major source of income, yemenis are now produced by only one artisan in the town due to decreasing interest in the handicraft. Erhan Başkaya, 42, now tries to keep this tradition alive by producing two yemenis a day. Başkaya, the sole yemeni artisan remaining since his master, Mustafa Öncül, died in 2007, also teaches the handicraft in training courses launched by the Safranbolu District Governor's Office and the Turkish Employment Organization (İŞKUR).
Başkaya says his yemenis draw the attention of tourists most. He also adds that he sells women's style yemenis for TL 50 and men's styles for TL 60. Noting that yemeni sales have dropped off, Başkaya says he has been unable to sell his yemenis to anyone other than tourists. “Yemenis, which used to be meticulously made by artisans in the past, are now used as ornaments in the home or as slippers. I use cow leather for the tread and leather of other animals for other parts. I have become lonely in this market, where there once were 45 yemeni artisans, since my master died,” he notes.
Stating that yemenis keep the feet cool in summer and warm in winter, Başkaya said he is fighting to keep this handicraft alive. “I am teaching it to 15 trainees. I hope they succeed and that this craft does not vanish,” he said.
