The decorative and applied art of the Kyrgyz people has developed over centuries. It was shaped considering the needs of everyday life and lifestyle, largely influenced by the nomadic way of life. Among the main forms of decorative and applied art of the Kyrgyz people, one can distinguish felt art, weaving, the art of patterned embroidery, making shyrdaks, leather goods, jewelry, and wood carving.
The art of making felted products is closely linked to the dwelling of nomads – the yurt. Felt carpets decorated with ornaments are called shyrdaks and are an important element in yurt decoration. They are usually placed on the floor. Felt for shyrdaks is made from sheep's wool, which is tightly rolled and dyed in bright colors. Pieces of felt are composed into an ornament, then sewn together, forming a beautiful carpet. The size of shyrdak is usually two by four meters. Also important in applied art is the carpet called ala-kiyiz (Kyrgyz "multicolored felt"). It differs from shyrdak in that the felt patterns are rolled into each other rather than sewn.
The art of making straw mats, called zinovkas, is also widespread among the people. They are made from stems of chiy grass, which are woven together with colored wool. Zinovkas are widely used in everyday life. They are one of the integral elements of the yurt, placed under felt carpets to protect them from moisture.
Embroiderers are also known for their skill. They skillfully embroider patterns and ornaments on fabrics, leather, and felt. Kyrgyz craftswomen beautifully embroider wall panels called tush-kiyiz. Such carpets usually have a monochrome center without a pattern, while the sides are framed with wonderful colorful patterns that delight the eye. Patterned embroidery is often found on traditional bags ayak-kap and on hanging shelves tekche.
Unique are the leather goods made by local craftsmen. They make not only clothing and footwear but also vessels for liquids (sabaa, chanach, kookor), frames for chests, cases, and horse equipment.
Wooden products are made from various types of wood - walnut, apricot, poplar, cherry. These include utensils, chests, and boxes, stands and cases, special chess and backgammon sets, and musical instruments.
The craftsmanship of jewelers, zerger-usta, is especially valued. For the Kyrgyz, silver is a sacred metal: it is not only an ornament but also a protection against evil spirits. Among Kyrgyz women, silver rings and rings (shakak), bracelets (bilerik), forehead and chest jewelry (soyko, jel-burooch), and hair pendants (chach ushtuk) are popular.
You can get acquainted with Kyrgyz decorative and applied art and even purchase some items in many cities and villages by visiting craft centers, workshops, exhibitions, or specialized stores.
