Kokaknd Uzbekastan, Silk Road

Located at the western end of the Fergana Valley, Kokand, along with nearby Margilan and Rishtan, forms a trifecta of artisan cities, each steeped in centuries-old traditions of craftsmanship, often passed down through generations within families. Kokand’s earliest mention, under the ancient name of Khavakand, dates back to the 10th century. The city didn't last long, as the Mongols destroyed it in the 13th century. After rebuilding, it took another 600 years for Kokand to regain its footing, eventually becoming the capital of the Kokand Khanate (kingdom) in the 18th century and thriving under its rule.

Kokand has long been a centre for wood carving, where artisans chisel intricate designs into doors and furniture. The city is also renowned for its ceramics, particularly its decorative tiles in vivid shades of green and blue—two colours that hold significance in Uzbek culture. Green symbolises nature and the flourishing of plants, while blue is associated with the sky and represents peace.

Southeast of Kokand is Rishtan, the pottery capital of the Fergana Valley. Artisans use the region's red clay to create bowls, plates, and tiles, often painting floral and geometric designs with distinctive blue and green glazes. Purple, too, makes an appearance in the pottery, representing the festive spring days and the blossoming of fruit trees.

Further east is Margilan, famous for its silk production. The leaves of mulberry trees feed the silkworms, which produce threads dyed and woven into ikat fabrics. The term ikat originates from the Indonesian word "ikat", meaning "to tie" or "to bind". This refers to tie-dyeing the threads before weaving them, creating intricate patterns in the final textile.

These crafts, which have been developing for over a millennium, have made Kokand, Rishtan, and Margilan the renowned artisanal centres they are today. The vibrant goods crafted in these cities would have drawn attention in the bustling markets of the Silk Road. As the merchants traded and shared these exquisite textiles, ceramics, and wood carvings, the crafts spread far and wide, helping the Fergana Valley solidify its reputation as a centre for artistry and craftsmanship.