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The Puppet Museum in Bukhara

Unveiling the Charms of The Puppet Museum in Bukhara:

A Unique Haven of Handcrafted Artistry

Nestled in the heart of Bukhara, The Puppet Museum stands as a testament to the captivating world of Uzbek theatrical puppets. Unlike conventional children’s playthings, these handcrafted marvels take center stage in a museum that embodies the vision and craftsmanship of its founder, Iskandar Khakimov.

The museum’s inception traces back to Khakimov’s original ambition to create a performance showcasing Uzbek traditions. As this vision evolved, the meticulously crafted puppets began to replace live actors, leading Khakimov to immerse himself in the art of puppet-making. Stepping away from his role at the puppet theatre, he birthed The Puppet Museum, an endeavor sparked by a fortuitous incident that underscored the demand for these unique creations.

In the late twentieth century, a puppet show highlighting traditions gained immense popularity among tourists. The turning point occurred when a spectator, enamored with a puppet resembling her, fervently sought to purchase it. Reluctantly parting with the puppet, Khakimov found himself compelled to create a replacement, thus kindling the birth of the museum.

The Workshop-museum of Bukhara puppets now stands as a compact yet enchanting space, featuring a diverse array of handcrafted figures. Ranging from 40 to 50 centimeters in height, each papier-mache puppet boasts distinctive facial expressions, emotions, and attire. What sets these puppets apart is their uncanny resemblance to real individuals encountered by Iskandar Khakimov in films, news, or daily life.

Beyond the captivating puppets, the museum proudly houses historical resources related to Uzbekistan’s puppet theater, accompanied by a delightful collection of photos featuring individuals alongside their puppet doppelgängers. Visitors often find puppets resembling friends and, in a whimsical turn, purchase them, sending photos back to Khakimov.

The puppet-making process is an intricate journey that unfolds in Khakimov’s workshop located just above the museum. With 17 skilled artisans at work, the process involves drafting sketches, molding plaster bodies, applying papier-mache, painting intricate facial features, and meticulously sewing unique costumes. Periodically, master classes are held, providing an insight into the craftsmanship behind these captivating creations.

Situated on the southern side of the Lyabi-Hauz ensemble, The Puppet Museum is more than a display space — it’s a haven of artistic ingenuity. As visitors explore this treasure trove of Uzbek puppets, they can also indulge in a unique shopping experience at the museum’s souvenir shop, where these delightful creations are available for purchase. Over time, international tourists have been captivated by Khakimov’s vibrant characters, carrying them home as cherished mementos of their Bukhara sojourn.

In essence, The Puppet Museum in Bukhara is a celebration of artistry, tradition, and the timeless allure of puppetry, providing visitors with an enchanting glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Uzbekistan.

Address: 2 Sarrafon Street, Lyabi-Hauz, Bukhara
Phone: (+998 90) 514-44-22
Operating Hours: Open daily from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm, with a break from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm
Admission: Free

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