Kyrgyz National Felt Products: Modern Transformations

Abstract

For ages, felt had great importance in the subsistence of nomad pastoralists of Eurasia. Among the Kyrgyz, each household was engaged in the processing of wool and dressing of felt. Traditional household items, clothing, and equipment were considered part of the cultural heritage. However, the profound transformations that have taken place since the collapse of the Soviet Union have also affected domestic crafts in general, including the production of felt. There is a tendency toward the loss of technological skills which is observed among the broader masses of the population, since many families have ceased to deal with felting. On the other hand, there is being formed a segment of artisans who are able to successfully adapt to the current market conditions and requirements. We attempt to examine and discuss the transformations that the production, use, and cultural importance of felt have undergone for the past two decades.