Bosnia and Herzegovina -- Social life and customs

Scope and Contents The Bosanski ćilim (Bosnian kilim) is a traditional flat carpet handwoven from sheep's wool dyed with natural plant ingredients. Influenced by both BiH's Ottoman history and the country's long folk traditions, the carpets feature colorful geometric, floral, and animal designs and were historically used to cover floors, walls, and furniture. Today, cultural institutions like the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina preserve historic collections, while modern artists and workshops work...

Content Description

Vesna Kurspahić (née Praštalo) has lived in Belgrade and Sarajevo and spent nearly three decades in the United States. However, she has always considered Stari Majdan, in northwestern Bosnia and Herzegovina, her hometown. Her family photographs depict everyday life in Stari Majdan between 1945 and 1992.

Content Description Bosnian water pitcher (ibrik) from the Ottoman period, hand-wrought from pewter and repaired many times. The Bosnian ibrik is a traditional long-necked pitcher, heavily tied to the country's rich coffee culture. They are traditionally made from forged copper or brass and sometimes lined with tin. While the broader term "ibrik" historically refers to a water ewer or the small coffee-brewing pot itself, in Bosnian tradition it is an ornate, long-spouted vessel used for pouring...

Scope and Contents

This collection includes a variety of textiles from Bosnia and Herzegovina that exhibit traditional fabric, construction, styles, and motifs. Items include weaving samples, slippers (čarape or priglavke), and clothing. It also includes miscellaneous personal items.

Scope and Contents

Content is intended for American service providers and sponsors and focuses on Bosnian Muslims. Includes sections on geography, history, customs, names, and language, followed by a brief annotated bibliogray and glossary.

Content Description This set includes a long-handled metal pot [džezva]; a sugar bowl (with lid); a round serving tray; and 2 porcelain cups [fildžan], wrapped in copper. No stamp. Context and Notes The origins of the coffee cuture in Bosnia-Herzegovina date back to the Ottoman era. Bosanska Kahva encompasses both a specific preparation and a way of life. Bosnian coffee is about ritual, hospitality, conversation, and connection, or...