An analysis of jewelry in the State Museum of Applied Arts and Crafts History of Uzbekistan

In today's world, historical findings hold immense importance in human life. They assist in learning about, understanding, and drawing lessons from the past. Historical findings are also crucial in helping us understand our essence, shaping national pride, preserving our cultural heritage, and passing it on to future generations. The examination of these findings is important not only for scientists but also for all members of society. The cultural and material heritages discovered through the work of researchers include archaeological remains, architectural structures, works of art, handicrafts, written sources, examples of oral folk literature, and much more. This heritage is not only of historical significance but also of cultural and spiritual importance. They play a significant role in understanding national identity, preserving cultural diversity, establishing a connection with the past, and leaving a legacy for future generations. This research aims to examine the old jewelry in the State Museum of Applied Arts and Crafts History of Uzbekistan in terms of the materials used, styles, motifs, compositions, and types. In this study, the history and geographical features of Tashkent, the characteristics of the State Museum of Applied Arts and Crafts History of Uzbekistan, information about handicrafts, the art and history of jewelry, the metals used in jewelry, techniques, and the characteristics of jewelry from ancient times were discussed. Within the scope of the research, interviews were conducted with art historians, museum curators, and officials working at the State Museum of Applied Arts and Crafts History of Uzbekistan. Observation forms were prepared for 53 pieces of jewelry on display in the museum, and frequency (f) and percentage (%) values were evaluated. The data collected from the State Museum of Applied Arts and Crafts History of Uzbekistan were analyzed, and the findings were presented and interpreted in tables. According to the research results, earrings are the most frequently found type of jewelry, with 22.5%. In addition, it was determined that there were 3.5% hair accessories, 1.5% nose ornaments, and 5.5% head ornaments (Tillaqosh). It was determined that a total of 33% of women in this period placed importance on head ornaments and used such jewelry extensively. It is seen that 3.5% of jewelry types belong to the mid-20th century, 9.5% to the late 19th century - early 20th century, 19% to the late 19th century, and 38% to the last years of the 20th century. According to the data obtained, it has been revealed that the museum has the most jewelry from the end of the 20th century. As for the raw materials used in the production of jewelry, it has been proven that most of the jewelry in the museum is made of silver, with 11.4% turquoise, 20.7% coral, and 26.4% silver being used. It was observed that 18.8% of production techniques were repoussé, 28.4% casting, and 52.8% tattooing. Therefore, it was found that the most frequently used technique is the tattooing technique. It is confirmed that geometric patterns are frequently used to adorn jewelry, with 43.5%, while 5.6% are made with animal motifs, and 20.7% are made with symbolic ornaments. Based on the research results, suggestions have been presented by the researcher.