An excellent antique silk embroidered Uzbek belt from Shahrisabz ( Shakhrisabz / Shakhrisyabz ) region of Uzbekistan and dates to second half of 19th century. These types of belts were one of the most coveted of all Central Asian textiles and were predominantly made for the aristocratic and noble families. Often they were worn on special occasions and stored away other times. The fine silk embroidery is done in Iroqi stitch (a variant of cross-stitch and not to be confused with the country Iraq ) and the entire surface is embroidered. At times these are mistakenly and generically called Lakai but they were in fact made in and around Shahrisabz. This example boasts a very unique design with circular motifs split into quadrant of red yellow and white. This repeating motif have featured in a few grande Shahrisabz irooqi stitched suzanis or horse covers but seldom in belts. The main motif is interspersed with archaic insect motifs in green and light blue. The colours are fabulous and really compliment the design. It has silk pom pom tassels on each end for closure and is lined with printed cotton lining. a top tier example in good shape and worthy of any good collection. Offered at a good price. size: 88cm x 11.5cm (34.5" x 4.5"). …. (If you message via rugrabbit and don’t get a response within 24 hours, then your message hasn’t got to us so please email directly to: istalificollections@outlook.com.