About this experience
Wood carving, maiolica, Suzani embroidery, golden sewing, undoubtedly, can tell a lot about the aesthetics of Uzbekistan. But have you ever thought about how many centuries-old traditions and sacred ornaments they hold within? On this author's tour, I will help you penetrate the mysterious world of applied arts of Uzbekistan and take a fresh look at the main sights of Tashkent.
What to expect
Cultural Code of Uzbekistan: Ornaments, Traditions, Crafts
In any ancient city of Uzbekistan, traditions of wood carving and ganch, Suzani embroidery, metal stamping, golden sewing, and making silk paper are carefully preserved. I will tell you how these types of applied arts originated and developed: what hidden meanings the patterns carry, how the schools of different regions differ, and how one becomes a master. Let's talk about the plant ornaments 'islimi,' about embroidery as an attribute of rites and ceremonies, and other secrets of local crafts.
Getting to know Tashkent through Applied Arts
My goal is to help you explore masterpieces of Uzbek applied arts in key attractions of the city. Our route will cover:
- Old Town of Tashkent. In the complex of Hast Imam, you will see mausoleums and madrasas with maiolica, learn about wood carving art, decipher ornaments, and also find one of the five surviving manuscripts of the Quran dating back to the 7th century. We will also visit a master who will explain in detail the secrets and specifics of making narrow arboreal fabric with ikat pattern and Kukeldash Madrasa.
- Abul Kasyum Madrasa 19th century. Here we will meet hereditary masters who pass on the secrets of wood carving and creating lacquer miniatures from generation to generation.
- Mir Minor Mosque - a modern white marble building that seems to hover above the ground. On a clear day, the marble shimmers in the sun, and the blue dome almost fades against the sky.
- Museum of Applied Arts and Crafts. With the help of its rich collection of items of Uzbek applied arts, we will study in more detail all its types - from metal stamping to beautiful Suzani embroidery.
Who is this tour for
For fans of applied arts and anyone who wants to delve into the world of Uzbekistan's ethno-culture, aesthetics, and traditions.
Organizational Details
- The tour can be entirely on foot. For an additional fee, transportation can be rented: car - 40 dollars, minivan - 60 dollars.
- Additional expenses: lunch (traditional pilaf) - about 7 dollars per person, entrance ticket to Hazrati Imam Madrasa - from 2 to 2.5 dollars, Museum of Applied Arts - 2.5 dollars
- Clothing should be appropriate for visiting the mosque, women need to bring a head covering.
