| Description |
The Kyrgyz people’s clothes are characterized by many peculiar features typical of the nomads’ clothes. The climate of a high-mountainous country with its sharp fluctuations in the temperature, which is quite severe in some places, leaves a big imprint on the character of the Kyrgyz clothes. This causes the need for various types of warm clothing, which are sometimes even used in the summer season.
The perfect example of such clothes is chapan – a long coat similar to a dressing gown, can be both with and without a standing collar, unbuttoned, like most of the Kyrgyz people’s clothes. Chapan is worn by both men and women. Chapan is sewn on a wadding or a camel wool with a cotton lining and is most often quilted. Women's chapans are sewn from the best fabric, which is significantly lighter. They are also often decorated with silver jewellery.
There are several variants of this clothing, depending on the region: naigut chapan - a wide tunic-shaped robe, sleeves with a gusset, sewn at a straight angle; kaptama chapan - loose fit, sewn-in sleeves with a rounded armhole; and a straight, narrow chapan with side slits. The hem and sleeves are usually sheathed with a colourful lining. In the south, it is customary to gird the chapan with a large scarf folded diagonally (charchy).
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| Social and cultural significance |
For the Kyrgyz people, chapan has a special meaning. Chapan contains features that testify to its cultural integrity and demonstrate the preservation of the ancient traditions of the Kyrgyz people in it. The nomadic lifestyle is clearly reflected in the chapan and the features of various regions are visible. The design uses ornaments and themes inspired by nature and tribal traditions. Chapan is not just a piece of clothes, it is a part of the Kyrgyz culture.
Previously, it was considered inappropriate to leave the house without a chapan. By this garment one could judge the class belonging of a person, his social status.
Currently, there is a revival of interest in chapans. If a few years ago the chapan was worn mainly by elderly people in the villages, today it can be seen at celebrations and official events, worn by people of all ages, even children.
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| Transmission method |
The knowledge and skills related to the chapan are mostly transmitted informally from mothers to daughters and from communities’ female elders to the younger women. Craftsmanship is also passed on from experienced artisans of the community. Numerous courses and trainings are established across the country. |
| Community |
The various types of chapan as well as traditional knowledge associated with chapan are widespread and practiced throughout the country.
Communities of women from all regions are the bearers, practitioners of the element.
Community of craftspeople: NGOs and informal groups such as the Kiyiz Duino Public Foundation, National Craftsperons’ Union, Supara, Chapan Studio, etc.
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