Uzbekistan is a country of creative people, as evidenced by its world-famous landmarks such as the Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum, which, while massive, features delicate details, from its elaborate tile work to its intricately carved mosaics, and Registan, easily recognizable with its blue domes and tiled exteriors. Their creativity, however, is not limited to their monuments - their ceramics, woodcraft, puppetry, and the like also showcase the many talents of the artisans from this Central Asian country. The good news is you can bring these back home with you as souvenirs. Check out this list if you’re wondering what to buy in Uzbekistan.
1. Ikat fabrics
Ikat is the name of both the fabric and the weaving and dying technique used to produce this type of textile. The fabrics spread across various regions thanks largely to the Silk Road. Uzbekistan has produced these eye-catching fabrics as early as the 19th century, and their textiles are distinctive in that only the warp yarns are bound tightly and dyed and come in bold, bright colors and designs. You can buy Ikat fabrics in rolls. Alternatively, you can also purchase scarves, bags, and clothes made with these textiles.
2. Miniature painting
Lacquer miniatures are one of the distinct forms of Uzbekistan, requiring equal parts patience and skill. While some say that the art dates back to the 14th century, at some point in history, it almost disappeared, but thankfully, they were able to preserve it, and it continues to thrive today. One of the most breathtaking examples of lacquer used as decoration is the 213 columns of Juma Mosque. The lacquer miniature paintings, meanwhile, can be seen in items such as pen cases, chessboards, and jewelry boxes. Look closely at these creations and see what stories each picture holds.
3. Wood carvings
Wood carving is another art form that has been around Uzbekistan for centuries, as evidenced by their presence in ancient architecture such as Juma Mosque and Mausoleum of Gori-Amir. Given that there are different schools of woodcarving in Uzbekistan, you can practically tell which group produced a certain product based on the wood, patterns, and approach of carving used. Jewelry boxes, accessories, and tables are some of the items you can choose from to bring home with you.
4. Metal art
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Metal art - from jewelry to decorative daggers and swords - are another popular product of Uzbekistan’s artisans. If you want a traditional souvenir, you can buy a pichok, a type of knife with a unique look: a curved dark blade, a dipped handle, and a sheath with clouds. If, however, you want to get traditional metal jewelry, you can get kashgar-boldak earrings, which are shaped like teardrops and have charms attached to them.
5. Ceramics
Ceramics are another popular souvenir that you can get from Uzbekistan. You can take your pick from functional glazed pieces, such as dishes, cups, and jugs. Alternatively, you can also opt for decorative pieces such as figurines. If, however, you want to buy something that would truly remind you of the country, you can buy ceramics from Rishtan, which are distinguishable because of their distinctive blue glaze, the color of which was extracted from plant ash.
6. Suzani
Directly translated, “suzani” means “needlework”. In Uzbekistan, however, it has a very specific meaning: handmade embroidery woven using silk and cotton threads, creating colorful designs used for bedding, hangings, table covers, and the like. Considered an art form, this tradition can be traced back to as far back as the 15th century. Experts can determine where suzani was woven based on the design and the weaving style.
7. Samarkand paper
It might seem strange to find paper on a list of Uzbekistan souvenirs predominantly composed of what can only be described as art pieces. Samarkand paper, however, is not your ordinary paper. Named after the first city and the center of paper production in Uzbekistan from days gone past, its raw materials primarily come from mulberries. The resulting paper is smooth and shiny and is said to last for centuries before fading, making this a favorite among calligraphers.
8. Crochet hats
The tubeteika, a crocheted skull cap, is a traditional hat worn in the Central Asian region, as well as some parts of Russia. Uzbekistan has its own unique variant of this hat, the doppa, also known as duppi, which is an essential element of the traditional attire in the country. It is traditionally black with white embroidery and comes with a square and flat base. Every element on the hat is intended to represent something: the four arches are said to stand for gates to keep enemies away, the burning peppers design is set to ward against the evil eye, and the almonds are meant to represent life.
9. Puppets
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The puppet theater is one of the most famous attractions in Uzbekistan - and you can bring a puppet or two back home with you if you wish. Uzbekistan is presumed to be the oldest puppet theatre in Central Asia. Besides entertaining the audience with stories based on myths, it is often also used as a platform to mock political leaders. There are two types of puppets in Uzbekistan: glove puppets, or koul-kougirtchok, and string puppets, or tchodir khayol. Fun fact: puppets in Uzbekistan actually do not come in the same size. Instead, their appearances may differ depending on what cluster of society they represent.
10. Spices
Of course, no discussion about Uzbekistan is complete without talking about its cuisine. While Uzbek cuisine leans towards breads and noodles, it also has plenty of savory dishes - and that’s where the spices come in. Black cumin, black pepper, coriander, sesame, cayenne, bay leaves, and cinnamon are the most common spices used in Uzbek dishes. While these are commonplace and can be found at any grocery store, the variants in Uzbekistan contain their own flavor that gives the country’s dishes their unique taste.
11. Carpets
Uzbekistan is a great place to buy some authentic Persian style rugs with unique designs. However, those who are purchasing quite a few rugs and carpets should be very particular of what they like as not all rugs are handmade and weaved. A trick is to pull at one end of the fringe strings which should pull the entire length of the thread if it’s hand made. There’s no set standard price but those that are made from camel hair or silk start at 800 USD to 1,000 USD.
12. Silk Jackets
Another great find to buy for memorabilia and for a great fashion piece is a silk jacket for those who are willing to spend a little more than extra. Uzbekistan’s fashion scene is definitely one of a kind, with stunning silk jackets sold in various stores and flea markets. Silk jackets have traditional embroidery that can be pricey starting at 1000 USD but 200 USD for simple plain designs.
13. Fur Hats
When strolling around Uzbekistan during your vacation, notice the fur hats that are sold in several street stalls and flea markets. This is another unique piece of souvenir to get your friends for a great gag gift and even possibly for the cold weather. An Uzbekistan fur hat starts at 30 USD, but if you’re just having a look and wish to take a photo for Instagram wearing it, some shop owners charge customers 0.15 USD.
14. Crochet Pouches
Storage and bags are always great gifts to give away from your travels, and a crochet pouch from your travels to Uzbekistan is a great option. Crochet pouches are found everywhere in the country as many locals use it for various purposes, as it boasts style, design, and affordability. Prices in flea markets start at 5 USD. Locals usually make use of these pouches for styling, baby clothes, groceries among other uses. Style and function met by handmade crochet artists.
Bring a taste of Uzbekistan home
From simple pieces to more ornate creations, there are plenty of products from Uzbekistan that you can bring back as a souvenir. From crafts to clothing, you have several options to choose from in terms of keepsakes. They work as a reminder of the artistry and your fabulous journey across the nation.
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