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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.

Travel chest

Wood, leather, metal, embossing, carving. A. Kasteev National Museum of Arts of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Travel chest

Zhagylan (suitcase, travel chest) The item is a portable rectangular travel chest (suitcase) constructed on a rigid wooden frame and covered in leather. The design features a hinged lid on metal hinges and a central locking mechanism reinforced with decorative plates.The surface of the body is richly decorated with embossed leather ornamentation, arranged in horizontal frieze compositions. The ornamentation is based on symmetrically repeating floral motifs, including stylised scrolls and heart-shaped elements, forming a rhythmic pattern along the entire length of the front.The key accents of the composition are created by round metal plates with a convex central section, positioned at the focal points of the ornamentation. These elements not only enhance the decorative expressiveness but also serve a structural function in reinforcing the surface.The metal details (corner plates, lock, decorative plates) are finished with engraved and stamped patterns, stylistically harmonised with the leather embossing. The outline of the piece is further accentuated by linear decoration along the edges.The composition is based on the principle of strict symmetry and the modular repetition of elements, which is characteristic of traditional applied art. The colour scheme is based on the contrast between dark leather, light metal details and the painted upper surface of the lid.Technologically, the piece combines woodworking (the frame), leather embossing, carving and the assembly of metal elements. All components are integrated into a single structural and decorative system.This item belongs to the category of domestic forms with a transport function and reflects the traditions of artistic design in everyday objects, where utility is combined with a rich ornamental culture.