The day when the newly born child is put into the traditional cradle (Beshik) for the first time is celebrated in the families with music, dance and of course traditional food. The relatives on the mother’s side bring the cradle as a gift. The cradle itself is very special. Colors and motifs differ from country to country and from region to region. What they have in common, however, is that they are made of wood, colorfully painted and / or rich in ornaments.
The baby is tied into the cradle with colored ribbons. Wherever the cradles are sold, the appropriate tubes made of wood or plastic are offered for boys and girls, that are placed between the children’s legs to drain the urine. The cradle also has a hole in the bottom under which a pot can be placed.
Uzbekistan:
See some examples of beshik from different regions of Uzbekistan here.
Kyrgyzstan:
These photos were taken in Osh in southern Kyrgyzstan.
Azerbaijan:
The photos were taken in Sheki.
Xinjiang:
Here are some cradles from various cities in Xinjiang.
Cultural Dialog in Eurasia 