• Traditional ceramics of Gijduvan

    A small town of Gijduvan is situated in 46 km northeast from Bukhara. From the ancient times till now days Gijduvan has been considered as important trading town and crafts center. Gijduvan ceramics take the special place among the large number of crafts produced here. The Gijduvan School of ceramics is distinguished by using of flower ornaments, often in combination with geometric ones.

    Ibodullo Narzullayev was one of the most famous ceramists of Uzbekistan and one of the founders of GijduvanSchool of ceramics. He took part in more than 50 international exhibitions. His creations are exposed in museums of many countries all over the world. Usta (in Uzbek this word means master) Ibodullo presented not only his invaluable style, but also handed it down to his sons Alisher and Abdullo, and daughter Nodira. They are the sixth generation continuing these ceramic traditions. Today Gijduvan craftsmen are very famous in Uzbekistan and all over the world abroad. The Narzullaevs are regular participants at all exhibitions of decorative and applied arts in Uzbekistan.

    or the last few years the ceramics of Gijduvan School have been exposed in 60 exhibitions in such countries as Japan, Germany, France, Italy, USA and Israel. The Narzullayevs won many prizes in different competitions and festivals. And they received governmental awards. Their creations have been appreciated by the specialists and distinguished guests of the Republic of Uzbekistan: Mrs. Hillary Clinton, Mrs. Madeleine Albright, the Prince of Wales His Highness Charles and Mr. Federico Mayor.

    In the ceramics workshop of the Narzullayev you will be able:

    -               to become acquainted with the process of producing ceramics;

    -               to visit the ceramics museum;

    -               to buy manufactured articles of Gijduvan craftsmen;

    -               to taste the dishes of Uzbek national cuisine;

    -               to have unique opportunity to attend a training course under the leading of Gijduvan masters living in Abdullo's house.

    Gijduvan embroidery is the other distinctive craft regenerated and developed by the master Mustabshira Barakayeva. Mustabshira-opa with her daughter Mavluda and daughters-in-law Dilorom and Gulbahor restored the past glory of Gijduvan needlework.

    Unbleached calico and dyestuffs used for needlework traditionally applied handmade are produced from everything that grows on Gijduvan's soil: nuts, pomegranates, onions, rose petals, many beautiful Uzbek herbs and bushes of fruit trees. Gijduvan embroidery has preserved its significance that it had in the past. Its range of tender colors day by day attracts more and more enthusiasts. To see the process of Gijduvan embroidery you can also in Abdullo's house.