Suzani c. 19th century

silk, textile

pattern heavy

natural stone pattern

silk

textile

geometric pattern

abstract pattern

ethnic pattern

organic pattern

repetition of pattern

pattern repetition

layered pattern

combined pattern

This 19th century Suzani, a type of embroidered textile from Central Asia, features a vibrant floral design. The intricate details of the flowers, leaves, and stems are rendered in a variety of colors, including red, blue, yellow, and green. The use of rich, saturated hues and the repetition of motifs create a dynamic and captivating visual experience. These textiles were traditionally used as decorative wall hangings or coverings for furniture, and their bold patterns were often intended to ward off evil spirits.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Part of a bride's dowry, these large silk embroideries were the most wide spread form of household decoration in Central Asia. They were often used as wall hangings and room dividers, however their first and most important use was as a cover for the bridal bed. This ceremonial use more than justified the labor and expense involved in their creation, as weddings were considered more than the joining of two individuals. Indeed, weddings represented the fusion of two families and the hoped for increase of the entire ethnic group.