Book - Uzbekistan Living Treasures: Celebration of Craftsmanship

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).

From potters to embroiderers, blacksmiths to wood carvers, goldsmiths to jewelers, Uzbekistan’s craftspeople produce truly special items of the finest skills and materials. These include Suzani, silk fabrics, gold embroidery, ornamental knives, intricate jewelry, handmade carpets, miniature paintings and ceramics that come in a kaleidoscope of patterns and colors. With the rise and prevalence of industrialism and the standards of mass production, these unique items handmade by craftsmen have truly become a special luxury.