Central Asia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan or Kazakhstan, Uzbek people, ca. 19th century CE. A wonderful and vibrant panel known as a suzani, made from felted wool and cotton designs of geometric and abstract forms. The textile is symmetrically constructed with a central square featuring four radiating arms of embroidery with additional curvilinear embroidery patterns upon a red ground. The embroidery threads are brightly dyed with yellow, blue, and green hues. Four addition square panels are attached to each corner. A brown felt applique is whip stitched to the verso of the piece. Textile panels and hangings were made by the nomadic people of the steppes for decoration and as wedding gifts. Brides and their mothers would hand stitch such pieces to present to the groom. A lovely example with great preservation of colors! (Size: 16.5" L x 16.5" W (41.9 cm x 41.9 cm)
Traditionally suzanis were created by Central Asian brides as part of their dowry to be presented to their groom on the wedding day as an esteemed token of devotion to their betrothed. The word suzani is derived from the Persian "suzan" which translates as needle. The fine art of creating such textiles is known as "suzandozi" or needlework. According to scholars, the oldest surviving suzanis extend to the late 18th and early 19th centuries; however, they were most likely initially created long before. The early 15th century writings of one Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, the Castillian ambassador to the court of Timur (Tamerlane), includes detailed descriptions of embroideries that scholars believe to be forerunners of suzani textiles!
Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection
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#158502
Condition
Fraying and wearing of threads. Discoloration and fading of red pigments. Raised embroidery is well preserved!