A joint virtual exhibition of Tajik kundalnigori painting and Iranian tilework, titled “One Heritage, Two Lands,” has opened to mark the 35th anniversary of Tajikistan’s State Independence and promote international cooperation between the National Museum of Tajikistan and Iran’s Koh-i-Gulestan World Heritage Complex.

The opening was attended virtually by officials and staff of the National Museum of Tajikistan and the Koh-i-Gulestan World Heritage Complex, Khovar reported, citing the National Museum of Tajikistan.

More than 25 of the finest examples of Tajik kundalini from the National Museum’s collection are featured in the exhibition. The works were created over the years by renowned Tajik masters, including Mirzorahmat Olimov, Rahim Ahmadov, Karomatullo Gayurov, Yusuf Raupov, Mahmadkarim Rakibov, Toshpulod Hayitov, Rahim Abdurakhmonov, Ayub Burhonov, Anvarsho Sayfuddinov, Mehrona Umarova, Shavkat Khujayarov, Behruz Boymurodov and Muhammad Hikmatzoda, among others. The works were professionally photographed and presented in a virtual format.

Kundalini is one of the ancient and rare forms of traditional Tajik painting. Researchers say the art form emerged and developed in the 15th and 16th centuries. Its designs commonly feature botanical, geometric, Islamic and zoomorphic motifs. Blue and sky-blue tones are predominantly used as backgrounds, while yellow is also used in some works.

The exhibition also features tilework from Koh-e-Gulestan, highlighting an important stage in the development of Iranian decorative arts. The seven-color, multicolored and māqal tiles have both decorative and historical value, reflecting cultural, political and social developments during the Qajar era.

Floral and botanical patterns, court scenes and other decorative elements on the tiles demonstrate the connection between Iran’s ancient artistic traditions and later developments in decorative art.

The exhibition is presented in a virtual 3D format on the Koh-e-Gulestan website and will remain available for one month to visitors from Tajikistan, Iran and other countries.

The “One Heritage, Two Lands” exhibition is aimed at showcasing valuable works of Tajik and Iranian art, strengthening cultural ties between the two countries and expanding international cooperation in the preservation and presentation of cultural heritage.