As part of the Days of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Turkmenistan, an exhibition of folk and applied arts by Azerbaijani artisans was held at the State Museum of Fine Arts. This international event, aimed at strengthening the friendly ties between our peoples, attracted the attention of members of diplomatic missions accredited in Turkmenistan, Turkmen artists specializing in decorative and applied arts, art historians, museum professionals, and admirers of traditional craftsmanship.
The exhibition tour was guided by representatives of the Azerbaijan National Museum of Art and the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, who shared fascinating information about the exhibits on display. Notably, the collection included items dating from the 15th century to the present day. Among the exhibits were examples of traditional Azerbaijani clothing, exquisite embroidery, prayer rugs, and various household utensils. Each item represented a unique work of art. Particular attention was drawn to a bathhouse chest, in which women once kept their jewelry when visiting public baths, as well as an elegantly shaped jug that was historically used for ritual washing.
Recognizing the Turkmen people include skilled craftsmen and connoisseurs of carpet, the Azerbaijani guests presented an extensive collection of museum carpets. Incidentally, the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum will celebrate its 70th anniversary next year. Azerbaijani culture holds carpets in deep reverence, as they accompany a person throughout life—from birth to the end of their earthly journey. The rare historical carpets on display, characterized by dominant blue and red tones and distinctive stylized ornamentation, vividly conveyed the spirit of the Azerbaijani people.
Among the magnificent historical pieces, a modern carpet entitled “Leyli and Majnun” became one of the highlights of the exhibition. At its center is a portrait of the author of the poem in the Azerbaijani language, Muhammad Fuzuli, surrounded by the characters of the East's most tragic love story. Visitors spent considerable time examining this remarkable work and its many details. The carpet was designed by artist Eldar Mikayilzade.
The exhibition also featured the art of jewelry, woven from fine silver and gold wire. Among the exhibits were folk musical instruments, jewelry box, clocks, and other elegant decorative items.
The display was further enhanced by photographs depicting both historical and contemporary architectural landmarks of Azerbaijan.
A collection of fashion designs was presented by Gulnara Khalilova, Head of the Center for Azerbaijani National Clothing, Doctor of Art History, and fashion designer. A fashion show featuring models from the Miras Fashion House demonstrated how a traditional silk Azerbaijani headscarf can be creatively incorporated into modern women's fashion.
The exhibition concluded with a tea reception, where guests were treated to traditional Azerbaijani sweets, including baklava, shekerbura, and other delicacies.
