Photos source: www.ceramic.uz
In the heart of old Tashkent, not far from Chorsu Bazaar, lies The Rakhimov's Ceramic Studio, a workshop where centuries of Uzbek ceramic heritage come to life. Here, guests can discover the rich world of Uzbekistan traditional crafts by exploring a gallery and museum, joining excursions, and taking part in master classes that offer an unforgettable experience.
A Lifelong Dream of Ceramics
Akbar Rakhimov (born in 1949) is an honored academician of the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan and a fifth-generation craftsman. Born and raised in the family of the esteemed master Mukhitdin Rakhimov, he inherited both his talent and a deep passion for exploring ceramics. From childhood, mastering this Uzbek craft was his lifelong dream.
In 1971, Akbar Rakhimov graduated from the Beruni Tashkent Polytechnic Institute, where he studied the raw materials used in ceramics. Later, in 1974, he enrolled in the ceramics department of the Ostrovsky Tashkent Theater and Art Institute (now the Bekzod National Institute of Arts and Design). After completing his studies, he worked there as a teacher, skillfully combining craftsmanship with teaching and scientific pursuits.
In 1994, Akbar Rakhimov opened a house museum dedicated to his father, Mukhitdin Rakhimov. It holds more than 300 of the master's works along with other valuable exhibits. In 2006, he brought his father’s dream to life by opening his own pottery school. Named “Master-Apprentice,” it highlights the Eastern tradition of passing on the craft “from hand to hand” through close communication and continuous mentorship.
Artistic Signature and Techniques
Akbar Rakhimov has created an extensive collection of ceramic pieces that have been exhibited in Uzbekistan, Germany, Japan, and many other countries worldwide. His style is deeply rooted in the ancient tradition of Uzbek ceramics. To deepen his understanding, he carefully studies data from archaeological ceramic finds. The craftsman works with natural dyes and prepares glazes using age-old methods.
He points out that all of his dyes are made exclusively from heat-resistant minerals sourced from the mountains.
Akbar Rakhimov’s pieces feature traditional bright Uzbek ornaments paired with more subdued base colors for the tableware. His works are often enhanced with elements of Soviet modernism. As a result, his stylish ceramics, rich in contrasting colors, appear both fresh and contemporary.
A Family of Masters: The Rakhimov Legacy
The Rakhimov family is one of the oldest dynasties of ceramists in Uzbekistan. Today, the family counts seven generations of master craftsmen. Among them are:
Mukhitdin Rakhimov (1903–1985) – father of Akbar Rakhimov, a famous craftsman of Uzbekistan, People's Artist of Uzbekistan, and recognized among the most famous craftsmen in Uzbekistan. He also authored the book Artistic Ceramics of Uzbekistan, for which he was awarded a doctorate in art history. In his work, Mukhitdin Rakhimov explored various styles and revived many local traditions of Central Asian ceramics.
Alisher Rakhimov (born in 1975) is the son of Akbar Rakhimov, an Honored Worker of Culture of Uzbekistan, recipient of the Shukhrat Medal, and laureate of the Navkiron Uzbekistan award. He continues the rich traditions of his father and grandfather.
Shohrukh Rakhimov (born in 2002) is the son of Alisher Rakhimov. He studied at the ceramics department of the Bekzod National Institute of Arts and Design in Tashkent. Despite his young age, Shohrukh has already taken part in exhibitions and craft fairs in Uzbekistan and abroad, establishing himself as a worthy successor to the family tradition.
Visiting the Rakhimov Studio: Tours, Museum, and Master Classes
A visit to The Rakhimov’s Ceramic Studio is more than just a tour. It is a chance to quietly step into a world where centuries of skill and tradition are still alive. In the heart of old Tashkent, this family workshop opens its doors to anyone curious to see how one of Uzbekistan’s oldest ceramic dynasties continues to shape and share their craft. Here, every activity gives a closer look at the care, history, and artistry behind this timeless work.
- Take a tour of the studio. Guests are often accompanied by Shohrukh Rakhimov, the youngest member of the dynasty, who shares his insights and passion for the intricacies of ancient Uzbek crafts.
- Explore the museum’s collection. It is vast and varied, featuring tableware, small figurines, decorative elements, along with numerous books and research papers. Visitors can spend hours delving into these fascinating exhibits.
- Attend a master class to learn about the process of shaping, firing, and painting ceramics. Under expert guidance, you can try your hand at the potter’s wheel and decorate your creation with authentic Uzbek patterns. The creative atmosphere and warm interaction with the master craftsman and his family promise to make this a truly unforgettable experience.