Andijan Embroidery: Reviving Forgotten Patterns

This article examines Uzbek embroidery as a national cultural heritage, outlines the general characteristics of the Tashkent, Nurata and Fergana embroidery schools, and discusses the near disappearance of this tradition in the Andijan region. Based on the author’s research into the patterns, colors and history of Andijan embroidery, large, widely spaced motifs and bright color combinations are identified as its main distinguishing features. The article also considers the symbolism of the pomegranate, pepper, palak and tulip motifs and of colors, the importance of stitching on natural silk, adras and atlas fabrics, the potential of embroidery as a home-based profession and source of income for women, and the demand for it among foreign tourists.