Sogdia (Western Turkestan)

Samarkand, the capitol city of Sogdia, located in Western Turkestan (modern-day Uzbekistan) was part of the Persian Empire throughout most of history. In 1965, a wall painting depicting a court scene was discovered. The bright colors and detail make it an excellent place to begin the study of costume. When one studies the paintings from Samarkand, you are struck by the similarity to Persian costuming throughout the ages.

Sergey A. Yatsenko wrote an excellent paper studying the costumes shown in the murals. His treatise is located here. Please note, this will take you out of my site.

The following images are from various paintings in Sogdia. As you look through them, note that the clothing does not appear to change signficantly over time.

The Painter Tanaka 500 AD

Wall Painting, 1st cent AD

Tribute Bearers, 600-650 AD

King Varkhuman, 7th Century AD

Gaming Scene, Sogdia, 740 AD

Nobleman Hunting with His Dogs, Sogdia, 740 AD

Merchants, Sogdia, 740 AD

Four Noblewoman 8th/9th Century

Warrior 8th/9th Century

Princely Gathering 11th Century