The Art of Artistic Embroidery in the Ordubad Region: Historical-Cultural Context and Specific Characteristics
Farida Alizadeh
Abstract. The Art of Artistic Embroidery in the Craftsmanship Environment of Ordubad: Historical-Cultural Context and Specific Features. The article examines the historical and cultural development of artistic embroidery in Ordubad, one of the ancient craftsmanship centers of Azerbaijan. The study highlights that the rapid progress of this art form in Ordubad was systematically integrated with the region’s well-established sericulture, dyeing, and tailoring infrastructures along the Great Silk Road. The paper analyzes the main artistic techniques utilized by Ordubad masters, such as gulabatin (gold embroidery), takalduz (chain stitch), beadwork, and quilting. Furthermore, the application fields of these embroideries in traditional women’s garments (such as kulacha, arkhalig, and arakhchin) and domestic interiors are thoroughly investigated. Special attention is dedicated to the visual language and semantic roots of the ornamental system, particularly the unique "Ordubad buta" and pomegranate motifs, tracing their connections to ancient Turkic mythological beliefs. The study concludes with perspectives on preserving and reintegrating these traditional patterns into modern fashion and ethno-design.
Keywords: Ordubad embroidery, sericulture, gulabatin, takalduz, Ordubad buta, Azerbaijani applied arts, national costume