Qalqan. Symbols of Crimean Tatars
From October 4 to 26, 2025, the exhibition “Qalqan. Symbols of the Crimean Tatars” will be on view in the Cupola Hall of the main building of the Latvian National Museum of Art (1 Jaņa Rozentāla laukums, Riga).
The Crimean Tatars are one of Ukraine’s core ethnic communities, with deep historical roots and a resilient cultural identity, despite having endured severe repression throughout history. Today, Crimea holds strategic, military, and symbolic importance in Russia’s war against Ukraine, as the aggression began with its annexation in 2014.
The exhibition presents decorative shields, known as qalqan, created by contemporary Ukrainian ceramicist Rustem Skibin. The qalqan is a round battle shield traditionally used in Crimean Tatar warfare. At the same time, it serves as an art object rich with symbolic ornamentation. Skibin revives this historical form in ceramic art, fusing decorative craftsmanship with historical meaning.
The artist has a deep interest in the cultural heritage of the Crimean Tatar and the decoration of military objects. His ceramic shields are inspired by ancient ornamental compositions he has discovered on Tatar weapons and armor.
Crimean Tatar decoration is characterised by floral ornaments, and an important motif of the Egri dal – a winding branch with numerous flower blossoms and fruits. These floral designs symbolize rebirth, resistance to injustice, and preservation. Geometric shapes are common, and one of the most characteristic ornaments is the composition of mihrab arches. The ornaments on most Crimean Tatar artefacts are difficult to read today due to deformation, wear, or improper storage conditions. The history of Crimean art is also poorly known due to the occupation in 1783, when a very large number of artefacts were destroyed.
There is no comprehensive analysis of the traditional ornamentation of the Crimean Khanate's military artefacts. On the basis of comparisons, attempts are made to "read" the ornaments and to identify the work of Crimean masters. This culture has certain canons, which differ from one craft to another and are determined by technical features.
Through his works, Rustem Skybin creates a link between different epochs. The ornaments of the 17th-18th century warfare reflect the constancy of tradition, and therefore the artist interprets the symbols in terms of the transmission and preservation of meaning, and the respect for specific historic compositions.
The exhibition at the Latvian National Museum of Art is organized in collaboration with the Embassy of Ukraine in Latvia.