Kazakh-Mongolian Wall Hanging
Kazakhs live in western Mongolia. There is a 7% minority of ehtnic Kazakhs in Mongolia. They bring a rich tradition with them in the form of Kazakh Wall hangings.
These decorative wall hangings are just one feature found in gers in the west of the country. The tradition of hand stitching these colorful, symmetrical tapestry hangings and putting them along the “walls” of a ger goes back a while. They actually serve a purpose in partially insulating the living space from cold breezes that howl across the steppe. Hundreds of hours go into the manufacture of just one of these.
A heavy winter del, traditional clothing for winter
Wearing local clothing becomes almost necessary as the temperature plunges in the winter time. This is a traditional heavy winter del I am wearing here. It’s super warm and quite practical in this environment. Dels are mostly seen during formal occasions or more commonly in the countryside when it gets cold.
Kazakh Eagle Hunter
In October every year, there is a spectacular Kazakh Eagle Hunting festival in Bayan-Olgii Aimag. It lasts a few days, and the people in attendance are witness to an ancient tradition, indeed. Golden eagles are raised to hunt for their handlers. The eagles can take down a full sized wolf, an ibex, a fox, rabbits or other prey. Dozens of hunters compete to see who has the best eagle. It is breathtaking to behold.
I will continue to feature more traditions of Mongolia this week.
Thank you for your interest!
