Description

Lakai Suzani

This suzani type – an undecorated field curved at the top like an arch and framed by a wide border at the sides and top – is known as "ruijo". Embroideries of this kind served as bridal bedsheets and were an integral part of the textile dowry which the bride brought to the marriage. They were spread on the bridal couple’s bed on the wedding night. The wide border symbolises a protective barrier for the newlyweds. This ruijo suzani, a rare example with a yellow silk ground, is a Lakai piece made in the surroundings of Shakhrisyabz. The elegance of its border design is striking. Two lively elongated wavy vines decorated with large botehs, sickle leaves and flowering twigs ascend to the panel above the arch where they merge into one. The curve of the arch is very flat in this item. The inner sides of the field are decorated with botehs and cruciform flowers. The lower end of the field terminates in a secondary border. – Several torn and restored areas, stains, signs of age and wear. Backed with canvas.

Origin:
Central Asia, Uzbekistan, Shakhrisyabz

Dimensions:
227 x 167 cm

Age:
Second half 19th century

Estimate:
15,000.00 - 18,000.00 €

Literature:
FLING, RUSSELL S., Khans, Nomads & Needlework. Suzanis and Embroideries of Central Asia. Columbus, Ohio 2012, no. 21

Published:
VOK, IGNAZIO, Vok Collection. Suzani. A Textile Art from Central Asia. (Text by Jakob Taube) Munich 1994, no. 36