Dated 1288 AH = 1871 AD, 273 x 225 cm, Central Asia, Uzbekistan

Light red in ground colour, this large Suzani was probably made in Ura Tube. A small disc-shaped medallion containing a cross device constitutes the centre of the composition. Delicately drawn vines decorated with flowers and botehs encircle the central design like rings or move away from it in straight lines towards the sides, ends and corners of the field. The same type of vine forms a lively undulating line in the main border. A Persian inscription embroidered in white calligraphy translates to the effect that completion of a piece of work brings happiness, but the end of a lifetime causes sadness. It also gives a date, "in the year 1288". Only a very few inscribed Suzanis are known. - Very good condition.

HASSON, RACHEL, Flowering Gardens Along the Silk Road. Embroidered Textiles from Uzbekistan. Jerusalem 2001, pl. p. 28