A world-renowned 400-year-old artifact has been added to the exhibition collection

A unique work of art that has traveled across centuries — a gilded decorative vessel dating back to the seventeenth century — has today taken its place in the exposition of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan. Brought from the world-famous Christie’s auction house in Great Britain at the President’s initiative, this artifact vividly reflects the artistic thinking of past centuries through its refined form, gold-leaf ornamentation, and exceptional craftsmanship.

With its form, ornamental system, and execution technique, it holds special significance as a rare testament to the artistic worldview of earlier eras.

Rustam Jabborov, Scientific Secretary of the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan:

The vessel, with a history of four hundred years, features a spherical form with cylindrical workmanship. This rare object possesses a well-balanced and carefully conceived overall composition. The lower part of its body is adorned with a floral braided ornamental band. Above this band are depictions of five blooming yellow lotus flowers, arranged in a circular manner to ensure compositional unity.

 

The vessel has been polished and gilded. The gold-leaf decorations not only lend the object a sense of splendor, but also enhance its sense of antiquity. These gilded ornaments, which have preserved their artistic appeal over the centuries, testify to a high level of craftsmanship. The yellow lotus flower was chosen as the main artistic element, reinforcing both the symbolic and aesthetic weight of the composition.

The degree of antiquity of the object is clearly perceived through its manufacturing technique, ornamental style, and state of preservation. Such items were usually intended for the elite and courtly environment, serving not everyday needs, but rather representing luxury and symbolic significance.

Today, this rare seventeenth-century artifact is preserved at the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan. Its inclusion in the Center’s exposition confirms not only its artistic value, but also its status as a rare and ancient heritage recognized on a global scale.

Laylo Abdukhakhkharova

P.S. The article may be republished with a link to the official website of the Center