Suzani
Maker
Unknown
Datec. 1890
MediumSilk on cotton
Dimensions68 × 47 1/2 inches (172.7 × 120.7 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mary Haskell Minis.
Object number1937.14.1
On View
On view
c. 1815
c. 1760 - 1780
CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThe patterns of flowers and leaves embroidered in chain stitch on this suzani likely symbolize love, fertility, and hope for the future. This type of textile played an important role in preparations for wedding ceremonies in Central Asian communities. First, a skilled woman designer, sometimes a professional called a qalamkash, drew the patterns on bands of cotton loosely stitched together. She then divided the pieces among women in the bride’s family, who separately embroidered them and reassembled them. They intentionally left a small portion of the design unfinished to prevent bad luck. Traditionally, the bride presented the completed suzani to her groom on their wedding day, and the couple later used it as a covering for their bed.
Text written for "Lingua Flora," on view from June 21–September 8, 2024.