Suzani
n. An embroidered tapestry from several
central Asian countries
Suzani
is a type of embroidered decorative tribal textile made in
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries. Suzani is
from the Persian “Suzan” which means needle. While suzanis typically have a
cotton base, the backing is frequently of silk, which is then embroidered with
silk or cotton thread. The primary stitches used are the chain, satin and
buttonhole. Couching (decorative thread laid on fabric in a raised line,
which is then stitched in place with a second thread) is also frequent. Suzanis
are often constructed in multiple pieces that are then joined.
The
oldest surviving suzanis are from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, but
it seems likely that they were in existence long before that, based on historic
detailed descriptions of embroideries that were probably forerunners of the
suzani, dating back to the 1500s and Silk Road trading. Tradition
maintains that suzanis were made by Central Asian brides as part of their
dowry, and were presented to the groom on the wedding day. Among the most
frequent design motifs are flowers, such as tulips and carnations, leaves,
vines and fruit, and sun and moon disks. Fish and birds are less common.
In
preparing this post, which was generated by a chance purchase of suzani shoes
in Newburyport, MA. (see forthcoming), the author discovered a rich trove
of on line information about both historic and contemporary suzani.
A
suzani sampler is below:
Knitting
Letters A-Z “S is
for Suzani” is an outstanding reference, intriguing read and alluring approach.
Visually
stunning and packed with information, Marla Mallett’s site is highly
recommended for the suzani enthusiast. Illustrations below (top to bottom):
1-2) contemporary suzani from the collection of Marla Mallett
3) Kundel panel, Tajikistan, 1910-1920, silk satin with gold & silk brocade
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Kaffe Fassett, Suzani Wrap, 2007 |
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