The Turkmen carpet company “El Darak” in partnership with the National Museum of Turkmen Carpets, has created a unique hand-woven carpet inspired by the fairy tales of Alexander Pushkin, as reported by the turkmenistan.gov.tm.
The project, realized as a sign of friendship between Turkmenistan and Russia, has become a striking example of cultural diplomacy. On the 2-by-1.5-meter carpet, skilled craftswomen depicted “Lukomorye”, the “Golden Cockerel”, characters from “The Tale of Tsar Saltan,” and other recognizable images from the works of the great Russian poet.
“El Darak” founder Ogulgerek Durdyeva emphasized that this carpet is not simply a piece of decorative and applied art, but an expression of deep respect for Russian culture. Its hand-woven nature lends special symbolism to the project. In this work, the centuries-old art of Turkmen carpet weaving and the Russian literary tradition have come together, creating a space for mutual cultural dialogue and the unification of peoples.
Beyond its cultural mission, the project also has scientific and practical value. :El Darak”, together with the National Museum of Turkmen Carpets, is actively restoring ancient weaving techniques. The development of this field is a top priority in the country. As National Leader of the Turkmen People Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasize, carpet weaving is a rich layer of Turkmen spiritual culture and a brand recognized worldwide.
The state carefully preserves this heritage. Turkmen Carpet Day has been officially celebrated since 1992. A thematic museum has been opened in Ashgabat, housing approximately two thousand rare exhibits and the headquarters of the World Association of Connoisseurs of this art. The high international recognition of this craft is also confirmed by the fact that traditional Turkmen carpet weaving is included in the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
