Hospitality Icons: Women with Bowls Author: Tracy Vancura

Abstract:  This paper discusses my research to date on an overlooked iconographic image widely found in Kyrgyz graphic arts and public statuary. The image of a woman holding out a bowl can be interpreted as symbol of hospitality and blessing, but specifically celebrates woman as host and keeper of the hearth. While these are traditional roles for women in most cultures, their ubiquitous presence in Kyrgyz art reflects how important hospitality is to political and social agendas both humble and grand. I submit that this iconographic image points to a deeply held belief: to enable diplomatic and social success, hospitality must be extended through women, not men. This acknowledgement, intentional or not, affords greater value to woman’s traditional role – an elevation absent in most cultures.

I will use a PowerPoint presentation to show examples of the woman holding out a bowl in the form of public statuary, tourist dolls, propaganda posters, book illustrations and the fine arts.