Uzbekistan: An Experience of Cultural Treasures to Colour

In an age where media is very visual with many preferring to watch a Youtube video than plow through a thousand-page history book, Lola Karimova-Tillyaeva, ‘Uzbekistan: An Experience of Cultural Treasures to Colour’ may be set to change that dynamic.

The book is arguably quite ingenious. It not only talks about Uzbekistan’s culture and history in quite delightful ways, but it allows the reader to express themselves artistically. Next to beautiful illustrations of Uzbekistan’s cultural treasures are short descriptions. Next to these are spaces to draw and color in your own version of what you see. This interactive element of the book draws you in. You feel you have become part of the book and contributed to it, and indeed, you have.

Uzbekistan’s History in Colour and Words

The book tells the story of the country in quite strikingly powerful imagery. The country which was once fundamental to the Silk Road has a history that Hollywood producers dream about. It has iconic architecture, and since it regained independence from the former USSR, it is a country that is once again inspiring travellers to journey east.

The country was put on the map when China started to export goods in what would become the Silk Road. Back then, around 138 BC, Uzbekistan was three kingdoms. As the kingdoms became prosperous, they attracted the attention of conquerors who prized the riches the Silk Road brought. As such, the region fell under the rule of one empire or another, and this influence can bee seen in Uzbekistan’s customs, and cultural treasures.

Lola Karimova-Tillyaeva’s book brings these treasures alive. Featuring photographs of murals, ceramics, tapestries, and ornamented textiles, and architecture, context is provided by passages of text. This gives you a strong visual message and the context to know their place in Uzbekistan’s rich history. 

The book also highlights the people of Uzbekistan. The Silk Road not only brought trade, but it also brought different cultures and peoples together. The trade route spanned continents and reached Europe in the west. It went south through what we now know to be the Middle East and India and reached and traded with much of Africa.

Customs, traditions, cultures, religions, ideas were exchanged. Merchants that passed through cities such as Samarkand, which at the time a major trading post, would have sold art in one form or another. They would have bought locally produced goods. All of this made a significant impact on the region. 

In the 15th century, Ulugh Beg made significant scientific breakthroughs and established one of the oldest universities in the world. He invited the finest Islamic scholars to study there. His efforts brought much enlightenment to the world.

This melting pot was a significant factor in shaping today’s Uzbekistan. The influences can be seen today in all aspects of life in the country. This has all been depicted in Lola Karimova-Tillyaeva wonderful book, ‘Uzbekistan: An Experience of Cultural Treasures to Colour’.

The book would make a wonderful Christmas present. You will enjoy learning about the country and have a chance to express your artistic side.