Museum of Applied Art of Uzbekistan, Tashkent
Address: 15 Rakatboshi Street, Yakkasaray District, Tashkent
Phone: (+998 71) 256-40-42, 256-39-43
Working Hours: 09:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m. (no lunch break; cash desk closes at 05:00 p.m.)
Website: www.artmuseum.uz
The history of the Museum of Applied Art of Uzbekistan dates back to 1927, when the first exhibition of artworks by Uzbek artists was held at this location.
Originally known as the Museum of Handicrafts, it was granted official state status in 1997 and renamed to its current title.
Today, the museum's collection features more than 7,000 pieces of applied art, including hand-embroidered textiles, tyubeteykas (traditional skullcaps), jewelry, carpets, and other fine examples of craftsmanship dating from the early 19th century to the present. It is a favorite stop on many Uzbekistan tours, particularly for those interested in the country's rich artisan traditions.
All exhibits at the Museum of Applied Art of Uzbekistan fall into three main categories:
- Works of applied art rooted in ancient traditions and associated with regional schools;
- Pieces created in the second half of the 19th century that reflect traditional methods of craftsmanship;
- Contemporary works featuring colorful ornamentation inspired by the evolution of modern decorative arts.
The museum also houses two gift shops where visitors can purchase paintings, graphic works, porcelain, carpets, embroidery, fabrics, jewelry, metalwork, and lacquer miniatures – all crafted by today’s Uzbek artisans.
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