A dastarkhan is a low dining table common among the peoples of Central Asia. The name comes from the Persian words “dostur” (tablecloth) and “khan” (treat). This factory-produced piece of furniture was made in 2015 in Petropavlovsk. It was donated to the museum by the akim (head of local government) of the North Kazakhstan region.

Dastarkhans are designed for meals with guests sitting on the floor on carpets. There are wicker and folding tables of this kind. A dastarkhan is an indispensable element of home interior, however, it is only used during meals. The table presented in the museum is of folding type and consists of two halves. When folded, it is latched and can be carried around by a loop handle. Such a design is convenient for regular nomadic relocation.

The round table top is decorated with a dark brown pattern edged in white. When decorating the dastarkhan, the most common Kazakh pattern called “ram’s horns” was used. This pattern symbolizes prosperity and vitality. In the center of the table there is a crossing of four ram’s horns forming a cross. Cross motifs in Kazakh patterns symbolize the four cardinal directions and the four seasons.

In European literature, the term dastarkhan is used to refer not only to the table itself, but also to the entire meal ritual common in Central Asia. From early childhood, Kazakhs are brought up to respect their elders and guests, who are always given the best that the hosts have. Lamb is cooked for honored guests, and foal meat for especially important ones.

Tea and koumiss, a fermented milk drink made from mare’s milk, are served as drinks at such dinners. In order not to show disrespect, the guest should at least taste the food offered. Seating of guests at the dastarkhan at all Kazakh meals — both every-day and festive — is arranged taking into account the gender and age of participants. The most honorable place for senior and respected guests is at the most distant point from the door and is called “tor”.

As a rule, the hosts sit near the entrance. A man in Kazakh culture has a more privileged position than a woman, so at feasts he sits in a more honorable place regardless of his age.