In collaboration with Uzbekistan’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO, the Islam Karimov Foundation has published a full-colour volume dedicated to the centuries-old silk weaving tradition which is based on Ikat techniques.

“The Renaissance of Uzbek Silk” – published in four languages (Uzbek, Russian, English and French) – tells the story of silk from its origins right up to the classic Uzbek Ikat produced today.

Ikat is the original, unique tradition of silk weaving, a craft carefully passed down through the ages from generation to generation and preserved to this day as a priceless cultural heritage of the Uzbek nation.

From the days of the Eastern Renaissance up until now, the skill of Uzbek masters has brought the world fabrics renowned for their rare beauty and harmony. And today, too, Ikat continues to travel the Silk Road, remaining true to its ancient origins while blending the historical and cultural treasures of many nations and civilizations, both past and present. By lovingly preserving the time-honoured techniques of Ikat silk weaving, Uzbek masters have ensured this true cultural heritage of the Uzbek nation can now enjoy a new period of renaissance in the 21^st century.

The Islam Karimov Foundation supports the publication and promotion of cultural, scientific and educational materials. It also furthers the creation and publication of works dedicated to Uzbekistan’s rich traditions, arts, literature and other achievements of which the Uzbek nation can be rightfully proud.