Uzbek 'Samarkand' Suzani Table Throw

This is a brand new authentic Uzbek Suzani textile, handmade in Uzbekistan. These can be used as table cloths, bed covers and also wall tapestries due to their light weight.

Suzani textiles are hand-embroidered textiles, made on cotton fabric using silk threads, this gives the floral motifs a raised texture which gives a unique appearance. They have been hand-stitched (suzani coming from the Persian word for 'needle') using silk thread which also provides a natural lustre (shine). Common motifs include sun and rosette discs signifying life and energy, pomegranates signifying fertility and abundance, and tulips, vines and tendrils signifying beauty and family lineage.

Originally they were made primarily for domestic and ceremonial use, not for trade. For example, as wall hangings and bed covers. Uzbek society was organized around family, clan, and marriage alliances, and textiles played a central role in these relationships, where they were created primarily as dowry pieces, where a bride's skill as an embroiderer reflected her patience, discipline and readiness for marriage. Traditionally, they would be created in panels and then joined.

Suzani textiles are primarily woven in the Uzbek cities of Samarkand, Bokhara, Tashkent and Shahrisabz, with each region having their own recognizable style. For example, Samarkand Suzanis include large sun medallions and strong reds and yellows, while Bokhara Suzanis display dense floral fields and symmetrical designs, and Tashkent Suzanis comprise cooler blue palettes. There are also Suzanis produced in other countries such as Afghanistan and India. Afghan Suzani textiles are often woven with a cotton thread instead of silk, and consist of more tribal, abstract designs.