May 1, 2011
Bukhara city`s Juybori Kalon Madrasah hosted a presentation of the book “Masterpieces of Architectural Epigraphy in Uzbekistan, published by the Fund Forum. Also, the chairperson of Mehr Nuri Foundation`s Public Council, Gulnara Karimova, presented grants to 10 spiritual education institutions. The event held as part of Asrlar sadosi Festival was attended by members of Uzbekistan Muslim Board, heads and teachers of spiritual education institutions and madrasah students from various Uzbek cities.
Ten Islamic educational institutions were provided with material and technical resources in grants under the project whose goal is to support spiritual education in Uzbekistan. Also, the fifty most promising students from each educational institution were awarded grants.
The word epigraphy applies to all types of inscriptions: on dishware, clothing, suzanis, books, gravestones and particularly architectural monuments. A number of scientists have claimed that epigraphy remains inadequately researched. With this in mind, a group of Uzbek scholars, at the initiative of the Fund Forum, undertook efforts to decipher inscriptions on architectural monuments in Bukhara, Samarkand, Termez, Khiva and Karshi. They have studied and catalogued thousands of inscriptions on world-famous architectural monuments in ancient cities in Uzbekistan.
The texts that have been researched are diverse. They include consecratory inscriptions or epitaphs which are not only samples of calligraphic art but also are regarded as literary sources. Many scientists have concurred that inscribing on monuments is not only a way of advocating it, but also a way of conserving it for further generations.
The scientists have made photo images of each epigraphic piece and letter found on the archs and domes of ancient structures. The bulk of the texts are dedicated to education and enlightenment. The cult of knowledge was considered holy in the Orient since olden days, which explains the abundance of inscriptions dedicated to knowledge. All the inscriptions were photographed, increased on computer software and studied in detail. A large number of text fragments show the use of diverse calligraphic techniques. It is noteworthy that making inscriptions on buildings not only had an educational purpose but also contributed to the development and improvement of woodcarving and stone calligraphy, which reached its height by the 17th century.
Unpacking the meanings of epigraphic inscriptions helps to discover historical facts relating to Uzbekistan and to provide answers to questions asked by many visitors and tourists. But most importantly, this effort helps restore lost fragments of inscriptions and convey important messages to the future generations.
Notably, a large group of scientists, art historians and publishing specialists are involved in each project presented by the Fund Forum. These publications form the series of scientific and educational programs launched by the Fund Forum to study and advocate the intangible legacy of oriental peoples.
The scientific component of “Asrlar sadosi” Festival is thus gathering momentum. The event helps to raise new issues and themes in the study of cultures and history, to bring together scholars and researchers, and to present research findings to the international public.
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“Asrlar sadosi 2011”: Day Two culminates in gala concert