A suzani rug (from Persian — “sewn with a needle”) is an embroidered wall carpet. This kind of applied art is the oldest way of decorating textiles.
Such carpets can be found in every Uzbek house. These peculiar panels are usually hung on the walls inside the house. The biggest suzani carpets are made to commemorate the most important events in the family.
Suzani textiles are also included in the bride’s dowry. It is believed that a suzani carpet marks the beginning of a happy family life. A young girl starts to embroider her suzani rug at the age of 10–12 and needs to finish all the work by her wedding day, except for a small part that remains unfinished. The unfinished work symbolizes the continuity of generations and the desire to have a daughter who would continue her mother’s work.
The embroideress’ skill is highly appreciated. The kalym (ransom) for a bride who is skilled at embroidering is much higher.
It takes a lot of time to create the finished item. One or more craftswomen can work on a large canvas for one and a half to two years. They first outline the pattern, and then embroider it on canvas with silk or cotton thread.
Often suzani carpets are made of two or more panels, which are then sewn together.
Suzani rugs are distinguished by bright and rich colors and are diverse in styles and patterns. The patterns on the fabric were deliberate: they are kind of amulets, with each image carrying a special meaning. For example, the firebird is considered a symbol of happiness, the pepper pod serves as a powerful defense against the evil eye, and the pomegranate is revered as a symbol of fertility.
Each region has its own peculiar stylistic techniques, ornament, composition, and color. Popular design motifs include images of the sun and moon, flowers — especially tulips, carnations, irises, leaves and vines, and fruits — especially pomegranates; sometimes fish and birds are also featured. Experts can determine in which region of Uzbekistan a certain carpet was made. Each embroidery school has developed its own style.
