JIHAN C: Opening Middle Eastern Doors, One Bookmark at a Time

Growing up in Lebanon during the war, Jihan C developed an early sensitivity to meaning, memory, and the need to put fragmented narratives back into place. That search for meaning would later become the foundation of her creative journey.

After studying Architecture and spending years in Canada, Jihan returned to Lebanon with a stronger bond to her roots — and a renewed desire to translate identity into tangible form. It was there that the Jihan C bookmark collection was born.

Architecture as Memory, Design as Identity

Jihan C’s bookmarks are more than functional objects. They are gold-plated mementos that celebrate Middle Eastern identity through the geometry of iconic architectural landmarks. By merging the symbolism of a door or a window with the act of reading, each bookmark becomes an invitation — to knowledge, reflection, and cultural continuity.

Through subtle yet powerful design, her work opens a quiet dialogue between past and present, offering some a moment of meditation and others a reminder of who they are and where they come from.

Landmarks Translated Into Miniatures

Each piece draws inspiration from renowned cultural and architectural sites across the region, including the Sursock Museum, Mandaloun, Baalbeck, Beirut City Hall, and the Al Rifai Mosque.

These landmarks are reimagined as collectible souvenirs — jewelry-like objects designed to be held, gifted, and remembered.

From Beirut to Cairo

Today, Jihan C’s bookmarks can be found in select concept stores and museum shops across the Middle East, bridging cultures through design.

Her latest launch took place in Cairo, honoring Al Rifa’i Mosque, one of Egypt’s most significant architectural masterpieces — a continuation of her mission to celebrate regional heritage through contemporary craftsmanship.

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