Nurata Suzani
S1: silk on cotton
243 x 150 cm

The floral motifs scattered on an open cream-coloured cotton ground are characteristic of Nurata. This is an exceptional piece with a strong border of circular rosettes alternating with elaborate vine scrolls worked in a deep blue. The colours – warm terracotta reds, coral oranges, deep blues   (including indigo), touches of purple-pink, yellow and green – are also typical of Nurata. So are the flowers – tulips (associated with paradise and divine love) , carnations, irises, and various fruit blossoms. The whole piece is clearly influenced by the Persian garden tradition which filtered into Central Asian textiles through centuries of cultural exchange along the Silk Road. The large rosettes on in the border represent the sun and celestial order while the scrolling vines suggest the continuity of life. The bouquets in the corner are certainly influenced by Indian Mughul botehs ( paisley designs).