TRADITIONAL ARTS OF THE ZERAFSHAN VALLEY

Traditional decorative and applied arts are another remarkable element of Tajik culture to be enjoyed in the Zerafshan Valley. This vibrant diversity of arts includes; wood carving, metal engraving, embroidery, jewelry making, carpet weaving and others.

The wall paintings among the ancient settlements of Penjikent demonstrate the existence of silk garments as well as gold and pearl jewelry amongst people of the valley centuries ago.  This trend has continued up until today, with similar items still very popular among Tajik women.  This traditional jewelry is normally made from gold and silver into earrings, rings, bracelets, necklaces and pendants. 
 

Wood is the preferred material of the “kandakori”, the wood carving masters. Mulberry, plane, poplar, juniper and walnut woods are particularly valued in the production of architectural details (columns, friezes, under-beams, doors, shutters, gates, grating). Examples of carved monuments, retaining pre Islamic art traditions include a wooden idol in Sardova village, a carved column in Obburdon village and a wooden altar from the Iskodar village (Upper Zeravshan). In addition, columns discovered in the Urmetan, Rarz, Fatmev are notable for their ornamental wood carving.
 

Embroidery has an important place in textile production.  Some of the products made by handcrafters include wall and prayer rugs, tea cosies, headdresses, camisole, dresses and braids. Gold, silver, silk, wool and cotton threads are used in embroidery. The hand embroidered cushion covers are some of the most beautiful objects of needlework produced in the valley. The covers are called ‘suzani’, which means “needle” in Farsi. 

Production of carpets is an ancient art and very popular in the mountain areas of the Zerafshan Valley. The wool of sheep or goats is used for the process. Today, whilst visiting rural villages, you can often see women using traditional weaving techniques and natural dyes in making the carpets.