Abr Fabrics in the Collection of the State Museum of Applied Arts and History of Handicrafts of Uzbekistan as an Object of Cultural Heritage Preservation and Interpretation

Abstract

The article examines abr fabrics from the collection of the State Museum of Applied Arts and History of Handicrafts of Uzbekistan as objects of preservation and interpretation of cultural heritage. The study focuses on the historical and cultural significance of traditional Uzbek textiles, the formation of the museum collection, and contemporary practices of its representation. Based on scholarly literature, museum materials, and interviews with museum staff, the article identifies the main stages in the development of the collection, reflecting broader processes of preserving works of folk decorative and applied art in the second half of the twentieth century. Special attention is paid to the artistic features of abr fabrics, including ornamental compositions, colour schemes, and regional traditions of silk weaving. The article also considers the role of Margilan as a leading centre of abr fabric production and highlights the contribution of contemporary masters to the preservation and development of the ikat tradition. In addition, it analyses current forms of museum interpretation of textile heritage, exhibition activities, international cultural projects, and the prospects for digital attribution of museum collections. The article concludes that the collection of abr fabrics held by the State Museum of Applied Arts and History of Handicrafts of Uzbekistan serves as an important mechanism for preserving cultural memory, transmitting traditional knowledge, and promoting national artistic heritage within the context of contemporary museum practice.