Additional texts:
Qalqan. Symbols of Crimean Tatars
The exhibition “Qalqan. Symbols of the Crimean Tatars” offers an insight into the cultural heritage of the Crimean Tatars and the tradition of decorating military objects, as reflected in contemporary interpretations by artist Rustem Skibin.
The twelve ceramic shields presented in the exhibition are based on ancient ornamental compositions that the artist discovered on Tatar weapons and armor. Each of Skibin’s artworks has a specific source of inspiration — a helmet, sword, saddle, knife sheath, armor, belt buckle, or shield — whose symbolic meanings of ornament, color, and composition the artist meticulously recreates through in-depth research.
Twelve accompanying texts have been prepared for the exhibition, detailing each of Rustem Skibin's shields, and explaining the symbolic meaning and historical basis of their ornamentation.
Umbon (Köbek)
Amulet (Nazarlıq)
Universe (Dünya)
Tulip (Lâle)
Star (Yıldız)
Falcon (Şahin)
Pomegranate (Elnar)
Friendship (Sahib)
Buckle (Quşaq baş)
Axe (Balta)
