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Traditional and contemporary art of Kazakhstan

A Virtual Journey into the World of Kazakhstan’s Artistic Heritage

This Web Gallery presents the diversity of artistic practices in Kazakhstan, reflecting the continuity of cultural traditions and the dynamic development of contemporary creative processes. The virtual exhibition features works based on national images, symbols, and themes, as well as artworks by contemporary artists who reinterpret the country’s cultural heritage through contemporary artistic forms, expressive means, and modern technologies.

The selected works demonstrate the relationship between traditional and contemporary art, revealing the distinctive features of the national worldview, cultural identity, and cultural meanings. The presented materials allow viewers to trace how elements of historical and cultural heritage are reflected in contemporary artistic practice, while maintaining their significance and relevance in an increasingly globalized world.

The Web Gallery is aimed at promoting Kazakhstan’s artistic heritage, expanding public access to works of art, and fostering a lasting interest in national culture and art among a wide audience.

Otau yuzik

Aktobe Region. Silver, granulation, repoussé, stamping. A. Kasteyev National Museum of Arts of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Otau yuzik

Ring (juzik), ‘otau juzik’ type (with a solid shield). The ring belongs to the category of traditional women’s jewellery of a status-symbolic and ritual nature, associated with the complex of wedding culture (the image of the ‘otau’ — the young family).The design comprises a wide, cylindrical band with a thickened upper section that transitions into a solid shield. The shield is trapezoidal-rectangular in shape and protrudes significantly above the main surface of the ring. The surface of the shield is covered with dense granulation, creating a relief texture.The composition is based on the contrast between smooth and richly decorated areas. The shank is organised into frieze-like ornamental bands alternating geometric and scroll motifs, whilst the shield acts as the dominant compositional centre. Its massiveness and textural richness emphasise the frontal orientation and visual weight of the upper part of the piece.The ornamental scheme combines geometric and stylised plant motifs. The granulation decoration on the shield forms a surface rich in associations, reinforcing the symbolic significance of the piece. In traditional interpretation, such forms are associated with notions of prosperity, stability and protection, which corresponds to the ring’s function as a symbol of wedding and family status.