New rug hand woven in Afghanistan on a golden field 8.1x 9.9
This modern Afghan rug is based on suzani embroideries. Suzani's are a traditional textile art from Central Asia, particularly from regions such as Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. The word "suzani" is derived from the Persian word for needle, "suzan," and it refers to the intricate and colorful embroidered panels traditionally made by Central Asian women for various ceremonial and household purposes. Here are some key aspects of Suzani embroideries:
Suzani embroidery date back several centuries in Central Asia. Women primarily practiced it as a form of creative expression and as a means of embellishing textiles for their dowries, weddings, and other significant life events. Suzani embroideries were passed down through generations.
Suzani embroidery is typically done on cotton or linen cloth using silk threads to make the designs. The embroidery is sewn using a variety of stitches, including chain stitch, satin stitch, couching, and buttonhole stitch. The designs are first drawn onto the fabric using charcoal or pencil and then meticulously filled in with colorful threads, creating intricate patterns and motifs.
Common designs and motifs found in Suzani textiles include floral patterns, vines, leaves, fruits, birds, and geometric shapes. These motifs often hold symbolic meanings related to fertility, prosperity, protection, and happiness. Each region and community has distinctive colors, motifs, and design traditions that reflect local customs and beliefs.