Master-Apprentice Pottery School of Akbar and Alisher Rakhimov

In an ancient district of the Tashkent city, in one of the so-called mahallas (self-governing body of citizens) a famous pottery ceramics school, Ceramic Studio of the Rakhimov`s family can be found. The beginning of this school was laid back in the middle of the 20th century by the works of Mukhitdin Rakhimov, a famous scientist and researcher in the field of ancient ceramics. Already in the 30s and 40s of the 20th century, he began collecting and classifying various styles, directions and techniques of pottery, starting with ancient samples such as polished Kushan ceramics, medieval Afrosiab ceramics, and blue and white pottery works dating to the Timurid times. This huge material was published in the fundamental work "Art Ceramics of Uzbekistan". For his work, Mukhitdin Rakhimov received many awards, including the State Prize and the title of People`s Artist.

At present, this work is continued by the son of the artist - Akbar Rakhimov, and his grandson Alisher. They adopted from their teacher all the subtleties and technologies for the production of clay products. Currently, in their own school they create works in different styles and patterns. Their school and exhibition center have become a popular destination for tourists and guests of the capital, employees of foreign embassies, as well as artisans from other countries who come to share experiences and develop their creative ideas.

If you are planning a tour around the country, be sure to ask your Travel Agency in Uzbekistan to arrange a visit to the workshop of Rakhimovs. This is a nice place with rich energy and tradition, and the hosts seem to be people fully devoted to what they do.

In the workshop you can see with your own eyes how unique ceramics products are made from fired clay. Moreover, you can work yourself with the material on the potter`s wheel, and take part in firing, glazing and painting the works.

Near the workshop, there is an exhibition hall, in which a great number of artworks made by masters of the Rakhimovs are demonstrated, including samples made using ancient technologies in the ceramics style of the Kushan era, Timurids, late ceramics of the 18-19th centuries etc.

Rakhimovs are always glad to receive you in their workshop and house. After viewing the works and getting acquainted with the art of making ceramics you can buy products that you liked, drink a cup of fragrant tea and taste oriental sweets and dried fruits.