19th century large hand-embroidered suzani, Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Made from cotton and hand-embroidered, this suzani was made by people from nomadic tribes in Bukhara, Uzbekistan.

Deep reds predominate the colour palette, and brown, yellow, green, blue, and vibrant pink are employed for intricate detailing. The central rectangle of the suzani is filled with a rich composition of flowers on a patterned background surrounded by a thin decorative floral design frame. A string of larger flowers of a similar design as the central rectangle adorns the outer border, the edges terminating with a thin frame of flowers and foliage.

Traditionally, a suzani was made in multiple parts, later all stitched together, enabling a group of people to work collaboratively on the piece. The suzani in Mayfair Gallery’s collection would have most likely been made in individual vertical strips, later arranged to create the complete textile.

Patterns and motifs adorning the suzani, such as flowers, leaves, and vine were believed to give these objects spiritual powers, protecting, and strengthening their owners.  

The reverse of the piece is lined with a richly patterned blue and white floral textile, protecting the reverse of the embroidery stitches.

Made to be used as a protective cover inside a yurt, this exceptional suzani can be used as a functional piece or as a decorative wall hanging, commemorating Central Asian history.