Bukhara Suzani
S7: silk on cotton
235 x 166

This spectacular piece, probably from the mid-19th century, is remarkable for the density of its embroidery with minimal ground showing through in the field. This level of density is unusual and indicates tremendous skill and patience. There is a lively but harmonious contrast of colour with the deep red and crimsons of the rosettes offset by the dark blue/black indigo of the vines and the use of a cool blue to provide visual relief. The flowing vine scrolls create a beautiful rhythm and movement that prevents the piece from feeling static despite its density.
Within the rosettes you see an extraordinary range of internal patterns that show the remarkable creativity of the piece : radiating petals, cross motifs, star designs, concentric circles.