The Art of Gold Embroidery from Uzbekistan


Book Description

Since ancient times Samarkand and Bukhara, have been thriving centres of craft production due to their location on the main routes of the ancient 'Silk Road.' The commercial, religious and political experience of these oasis cities had major lasting influences on craft production. Gold embroidery was no exception. Detailed examination of historical sources related to gold embroidery or zarduzi, showed that, until the Bolshevic Revolution in 1917, consumption of gold embroidery was restricted to the wealthy middle class and court elites. It was most spectacularly employed in displays of power and wealth among the courts of the Emirs before the Russian invasion in1868 and was produced by ustos, or masters in court ateliers. Follow zarduzi to the present day.







Women’s Dance Traditions of Uzbekistan


Book Description

The first comprehensive work in English on the three major regional styles of Uzbek women's dance – Ferghana, Khiva and Bukhara – and their broader Silk Road cultural connections, from folklore roots to contemporary stage dance. The book surveys the remarkable development from the earliest manifestations in ancient civilizations to a sequestered existence under Islam; from patronage under Soviet power to a place of pride for Uzbek nationhood. It considers the role that immigration had to play on the development of the dances; how women boldly challenged societal gender roles to perform in public; how both material culture and the natural world manifest in the dance; and it illuminates the innovations of pioneering choreographers who drew from Central Asian folk traditions, gestures and aesthetics – not Russian ballet – to first shape modern Uzbek stage dance. Written by the first American dancer invited to study in Uzbekistan, this book offers insight into the once-hidden world of Uzbek women's dance.







Uzbekistan Living Treasures: Celebration of Craftsmanship


Book Description

Uzbekistan’s arts and crafts culture goes back millennia, to the days of the Great Silk Road. Its skills and techniques have been tightly preserved through a culture of transmission, passed down from generation to generation—from “usto” (master) to “shogird” (young artisan).




Uzbekistan


Book Description

When Uzbekistan declared independence and left the Soviet Union, it started a new chapter in its long history. Readers will explore this history and the steps Uzbekistan has taken to plan for the future with this thoroughly-researched and updated guide. From facts about the government and economy to details about art, music, and sports, every aspect of life in this Central Asian nation is presented. Additional information about Uzbekistan is found in easy-to-read maps, a comprehensive timeline, recipes for making popular foods, and helpful sidebars.




Grove Encyclopedia of Islamic Art & Architecture: Three-Volume Set


Book Description

The Grove Encyclopedia of Islamic Art and Architecture is the most comprehensive reference work in this complex and diverse area of art history. Built on the acclaimed scholarship of the Grove Dictionary of Art, this work offers over 1,600 up-to-date entries on Islamic art and architecture ranging from the Middle East to Central and South Asia, Africa, and Europe and spans over a thousand years of history. Recent changes in Islamic art in areas such as Afghanistan, Iran, and Iraq are elucidated here by distinguished scholars. Entries provide in-depth art historical and cultural information about dynasties, art forms, artists, architecture, rulers, monuments, archaeological sites and stylistic developments. In addition, over 500 illustrations of sculpture, mosaic, painting, ceramics, architecture, metalwork and calligraphy illuminate the rich artistic tradition of the Islamic world. With the fundamental understanding that Islamic art is not limited to a particular region, or to a defined period of time, The Grove Encyclopedia of Islamic Art and Architecture offers pathways into Islamic culture through its art.




The Geography of Uzbekistan


Book Description

This book describes the geography of Uzbekistan and its unique history and culture. It focuses on the development of Uzbekistan as a result of its location on the crossroads of the Silk Road. The influence of global and regional environmental challenges on the current landscape and similar issues are discussed and analyzed from a historical perspective. Contemporary tensions and reforms in social, economical and cultural life are described with the aim to draw a picture of modern paths to transformation and development. The Geography of Uzbekistan includes also information on geology, nature and natural resources, in particular water. The book discusses the social and environmental impacts of the Aral Sea disaster and shows new paths of transformation and development for this Central Asian country.




Uzbekistan


Book Description

Guide to Uzbekistan, Central Asia's most populous country and the heart of the historic Silk Road.




Bright Flowers


Book Description

Traditional crafts in a variety of media are showcased in this lavishly illustrated book which accompanies a major exhibition at Sydney's Powerhouse Museum. Taking inspiration from Islamic ornament and other traditional motifs, contemporary makers continue to find inspiration in the bright flowers of the oases.




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