Ceramics Museum in Gijduvan
Gijduvan Ceramics Museum
At 45 kilometers from Bukhara is a small ancient town Gijduvan. From ancient times to the present day Gijduvan is known as a shopping city and the center of craftsmanship.
But still, pottery is unique among the various crafts that flourish in town. The Gijduvan school of ceramics is characterized by the use of geometric forms and colors in ornaments.
Pottery of Gijduvan
Pottery from Gijduvan is light, porous, and thick-walled. It features shades of yellow and brown, occasionally mixed with green and blue. Tableware is usually monochrome without excessive decoration. Artisans often apply a dark glaze over fine patterns, creating a marble-like effect where the primary color absorbs the secondary tones.
Ancient Pottery Center
Gijduvan is an ancient pottery center where skilled craftsmen have passed down their techniques through generations. The Nasrullayev family, for instance, has been working in ceramics for six generations. They are renowned throughout Uzbekistan for their craftsmanship. Visitors to their large workshop can observe the production process, purchase unique pottery pieces, or even try working on the potter’s wheel themselves.
All dishes from Gijduvan are handmade, and turning each piece reveals the traces left by the potter’s wheel. Local artisans use special paints made exclusively from natural materials, which they continue to prepare manually.
Colors and Style
The colors used in Bukharian ceramics are inspired by the ancient mosaics of Bukhara’s madrasahs and mosques. Unlike the sharp, precise patterns of the Rishtan school, the designs of the Gijduvan and Bukhara schools are intentionally blurred. This distinctive style creates a fascinating effect where, as the viewer steps back, the images appear more voluminous and dynamic.
Many “lyagans” (large dishes) feature three shallow holes at the base, allowing them to be strung up as wall decorations when not in use for special occasions. Thus, these pieces serve both as functional tableware and as decorative art.