In the 18th and 19th centuries, the territory of Uzbekistan became a center for creating remarkable textile products that stood out for their artistic value and diversity of styles. These items not only served functional purposes in everyday life and ceremonies but also reflected the status and material wealth of their owners. One of the most striking examples of traditional Uzbek textiles is the suzani.
Suzani, which translates from Persian as "made with a needle," are embroidered fabrics primarily produced in the Bukhara Emirate. They are characterized by a variety of artistic solutions, ranging from bright and expressive to refined and delicate. Especially notable are suzanis with large medallions, which symbolize masculine energy and possess powerful visual appeal. To truly appreciate their beauty, one must examine the details of the embroidery up close, as well as view them in context from a distance.
One historically significant example is a suzani with a central hexagonal medallion in golden hues, adorned with verses in Persian (along with one phrase in Arabic). The verses represent expressions of love, adding depth and emotional resonance to this piece of art. Despite the wear on the fabric, the vibrancy of this unique suzani remains intact. This piece represents a transitional type between earlier and later suzanis of the Bukhara Emirate, where the hexagonal shape is no longer found. The embroidery is crafted with silk using tambour stitch and the bosma technique on a cotton base, highlighting the skill and artistic vision of the creators of these beautiful textile works.
Only about 60 examples of suzanis with large medallions have survived, making them particularly valuable. In contrast, there are suzanis from the surroundings of Shahrisabz, characterized by delicate floral ornamentation and intricate embroidery. These pieces radiate femininity and grandeur, instantly evoking a sense of beauty and happiness.

You can learn more about the topic in the book-album "The cultural legacy of Uzbekistan in private collections of the USA and Canada".
The main sponsor of the project is the oilfield services company Eriell-Group.