Many ethnic groups in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan are well-known for their carpets, but have also produced beautiful, intricately embroidered textiles, sometimes embellished with beadwork.  Most of the items posted here are costume pieces or household items that date from either the late 19th century or the first half of the 20th century.  They are joyful, colorful articles that greatly enlivened the austere and often harsh environments.