Description

Shakhrisyabz Suzani

Origin:
Central Asia, southern Uzbekistan

Dimensions:
270 x 202 cm

Age:
18th century

Estimate:
21,000.00 €

The type of stitches, style and palette clearly identify this magically beautiful Suzani silk embroidery on a five-panel cotton foundation as a product of Shakhrisyabz, the Green City in the Emirate of Bokhara where many of the best Suzanis were made. It may be dated to the 18th century on the basis of its rich and complex design, the quality of its embroidery and its splendid palette. Examples of Suzanis of the same quality are found in the collection of the de Young Museum in San Francisco (see Cootner), the Vok Collection and the Wolf Collection (see Grube). The design of the field – a four-and-one composition of five huge circular poppy blossoms integrated into scrolling vines of blue-green twigs – is perfectly drawn and proportioned in a free and dynamic style full of movement. Four palmettes and four small circular blossoms radially surround the central blossom. The large sickle leaves are a very rare feature. The extra-wide borders present the characteristic ornamental repertoire, except here the designs appear more sumptuous and more powerfully drawn than in other first-rate examples. Single flowers and designs composed of five blossoms alternate at regular intervals. One of the large circular blossoms contains a rotating star. The secondary borders contain various vine designs. – Minimal signs of wear and repairs, very good overall condition. Backed with fabric.

Literature:
LINDAHL, DAVID & KNORR, THOMAS, Uzbek. The textiles and life of the nomadic and sedentary Uzbek tribes of Central-Asia. Lörrach - Tüllingen 1975, pl. 20 *** COOTNER, CATHRYN, Gardens Of Paradise. In: HALI 30, London 1986, no. 5, p. 49 *** GRUBE, ERNST J.,