weaving, textile, cotton
weaving
textile
soviet-nonconformist-art
geometric
cotton
textile design
decorative-art
Dimensions 74 1/2 x 133 7/16 in. (189.23 x 338.93 cm) (without hanging loops)
This Tush kyiz, or hanging, was anonymously made around 1960. The wall hanging is made from different types of felted wool with intricate patterns of embroidery. These hangings like this are made by women in Central Asia to commemorate weddings. Here, the black background felt and red border showcase striking embroidery, celebrating the Soviet regime through recognizable buildings in Moscow. Note the towers of the Kremlin, adorned with red stars and a rocket shooting up towards the sky. The center of the wall hanging features an emblem with a wreath of cotton and wheat, with a red banner in the center. The embroidery would have been done by hand, a painstaking process of skilled labor. This hanging is a great example of how craft traditions are used to celebrate labor and politics, while elevating the traditional domestic craft of embroidery to new heights of expression.
Comments
These large wall panels were part of the interior decoration of many Kyrgyz homes and often reflected general social interests as well as the preferences of the maker. Patterning on older pieces often include abstract imagery associated with archaic motifs while many mid-twentieth century hangings are often patriotic statements that frequently include the area's enthusiasm for the cotton production that initially invigorated the economic development of the area. Commercial patterns were available and used by many women. The panel seen here references the Kyrgyz political affiliation with Moscow and the country's pride in the success of the USSR space exploration programs. All the rocket launches were made from Central Asia, from a site in southern Kazakhstan.
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