EQUESTRIAN TEXTILE HERITAGE, INCLUDING TURKMEN PIECES, HIGHLIGHTED AT THE GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY MUSEUM

On May 9, 2026, representatives of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the United States attended the exhibition “Adorning the Horse: Equestrian Textiles for Power and Prestige” and the screening of the documentary film “Atlan” at The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum in Washington, D.C.

The exhibition highlights the historical and cultural significance of equestrian textiles, including Turkmen items that reflect the rich artistic traditions and deep connection of the Turkmen people with horses.

The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum have also published a catalogue titled “Adorning the Horse: Equestrian Textiles for Power and Prestige,” which presents equestrian textile traditions of various nations and features Turkmen equestrian textiles among them.

Following the exhibition and film screening, Embassy representatives met with the organizers and exchanged views on the importance of preserving and promoting equestrian heritage. The Embassy noted that Turkmenistan declared 2026 as “Independent, Permanently Neutral Turkmenistan – Homeland of Purposeful Heavenly Horses,” underscoring the special place of horses, particularly the Akhal-Teke horse, in Turkmen national culture.

The Embassy expressed appreciation to the GW Museum and The Textile Museum for promoting Turkmen equestrian heritage and strengthening cultural dialogue between Turkmenistan and the United States.