Preserving Culture Through Abkhaz-Adyghe Weaving
SUKHUM / AQW’A — In the heart of Sukhum, the AUADA Gallery will host a special exhibition showcasing the revival of the ancient craft of Abkhaz-Adyghe silver weaving. The artisans of Akakach Studio employ an age-old technique, creating silver jewellery that holds both aesthetic and cultural significance.
This craft involves weaving fine silver or gold threads around a silk core, a skill that has existed for centuries among the Abkhaz-Adyghe (Circassian) peoples. Historically, it was passed from mother to daughter, blending artistry with cultural identity. In times when household items and jewellery were handmade, only wealthier families could afford this intricate art.
Over the last century, however, changes in traditional lifestyles nearly erased this craft in Abkhazia. Fortunately, it endured within the Abkhaz diaspora in Turkey, where it was carefully preserved. In 2018, Behice Bagba, Esen Kudzhba, and Asiye Yagan brought their expertise to Abkhazia, holding workshops where Kudzhba and Yagan taught local women the delicate art of silver weaving. Their efforts led to the establishment of Akakach Studio (Акакаҷ), meaning "bead" in Abkhazian and "boncuk" in Turkish, a space dedicated to reviving and modernising this ancient craft.
Founded by art historian Elena Labakhua, artist Maktina Gogiya, and designer Stella Sadzbaa, Akakach has become a centre for cultural preservation. The studio's jewellery, crafted from high-quality silver and natural stones, blends traditional Abkhaz-Adyghe artistry with contemporary design. Each piece draws inspiration from intricate patterns of Abkhaz ornamentation, often influenced by the works of renowned artist Batal Dzhapua.
In a nod to tradition, Akakach wraps its jewellery in handmade scarves, echoing the historic Abkhaz custom of presenting gifts in fabric. These scarves, also crafted by the studio, incorporate motifs inspired by Dzhapua’s designs, further reflecting the studio's commitment to authenticity.
Exhibition at AUADA Gallery
From 27 November to 4 December, Akakach Studio will present its first collection at the AUADA Gallery in Sukhum. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a variety of handcrafted jewellery, including bracelets, pendants, and necklaces, each a tribute to the skill and cultural depth of Abkhaz-Adyghe silver weaving.
The revival of this craft is more than a return to traditional techniques—it is a testament to the importance of cultural heritage in an increasingly globalised world. By reconnecting with ancestral skills and adapting them to contemporary contexts, Akakach Studio is preserving an art form while fostering a sense of pride and identity within the Abkhaz community.