Uzbekistan State Museum of Applied Art – Tashkent Attractions | Viator.com

The basics

Exhibits featuring Uzbek arts and crafts fill the former home of a Russian diplomat. Featuring intricate wood carvings and colorful tilework, the house and its decorated rooms are as interesting as the objects on display. While the collection may be small, it takes time to appreciate the incredible technical skill involved, so make sure you count on at least 45 minutes to an hour to move through the museum. While many people visit independently, a guide is recommended for anyone wanting more detailed explanations.

Things to know before you go

• Be sure to check out the on-site museum gift shop in the shaded courtyard, which is an excellent place to pick up souvenirs. The fixed prices tend to be higher than in other shops or marketplaces but reflect the quality.
• Planning on taking photographs? A separate fee for using a camera is charged along with your admission ticket.
• You’ll find English signage, typically including the name of the craft tradition on display and the year that the object was made. However, it is recommended that you visit alongside a guide to understand the history and cultural significance of each applied art.

How to get there

Located in central Tashkent, the museum can be reached from most downtown areas by foot. Otherwise, get your hotel to arrange a taxi, which are reasonably priced in Uzbekistan. Rideshare apps are another option; simply download them to your phone and set the pickup location and destination (You’ll likely need a working cell phone number, so keep that in mind.)

When to get there

The museum is open daily from mid-morning until early evening. Many people visit as part of full-day tours of Tashkent alongside other museums like the State Museum of Arts or Amir Timur Museum. If you’re visiting alone, aim to arrive in the morning to avoid large tours. Since the museum is small, it can quickly feel crowded when filled with groups.

Uzbek textiles: the difference between Ikat and Suzani

Ikat fabrics are called abr in Uzbekistan, from the Persian for “cloud” (“Ikat” is a Malay-Indonesian word). They are made by hand using a time-consuming process that involves resist-dyeing the yarn, which creates unique geometric patterns in the cloth. These patterns are seen in everything from pillowcases to clothing. Suzani, which means “needle” in Persian, is a type of colorful, hand-embroidered tribal textile featuring flowers and other nature motifs. It is meant to be hung flat on the wall.