Hand-Carved Floral Walnut Wood Sling with Leather Straps - Sylvan Empress

Artisan Organization: Mirmahsud

Country: Silk Road

"My childhood was spent during the USSR. The modern era brought about perestroika (reconstruction), and the independence of our country, Uzbekistan, occurred while I was studying at the Higher Educational Institution, and this event left an impact on me as a young man. With the independence of our new country, our centuries-old national values and traditions resurfaced.

"As a child, I had a keen interest in applied arts. I began learning the craft of wood carving at the age of 19 as an apprentice to a master who taught me the skills. I am immensely grateful to my parents for their full support in my pursuit of learning wood carving. I had several teachers, each imparting their own aspects of the craft to me. During my time as an apprentice, we often had to work late. We would encourage and motivate each other with the phrase, 'Anytime, anywhere, in any weather.'

"Life presented me with both challenging and joyful circumstances. While I am happy to share the joyful moments, I prefer not to dwell on the difficult ones. This is simply my character, although those difficulties were not significant. Difficulties shape a person, and that's the main lesson I learned from them.

"Wood carving is an integral part of our cultural tradition. Uzbek ornamental wood carving has a deep history rooted in the beginning of Islamic culture. We still have preserved samples of wood carvings from the 14th and 15th centuries. We use vintage traditional hand tools, traditional techniques, and designs.

"I believe that my designs stand out due to their precise execution. The work is done in a disciplined manner. Among the Uzbek people, masters are referred to as "Usta," which translates to "Teacher." Usta means being a master not only in one's own profession but also in related fields. Therefore, among friends and family, I have been given the title of Usta, and I consider myself as one.

"I am married and have children. Two of my daughters are already married, and I have two sons who live with me. I hope to witness their weddings and have grandchildren from them. My youngest son is continuing my work, and I take pride in that.""