This is an excerpt from the September/October issue of TEA Magazine
Dushanbe Teahouse is a gift ― an ornate, sturdy symbol of peace from the people of Tajikistan, situated in the center of Boulder, Colo.
A brightly painted ceiling of intricate hand-carved patterns is supported by 12 carved cedar columns in a Persian style centuries old. Surrounding a central pool are seven hammered copper sculptures, “The Seven Beauties,” inspired by the poetry in Nizami Ganjavi’s “Khamsa” which was completed in 1197AD. The figures, created by Ivan Milosovich, explore the themes of social justice, morality and appreciation of nature.
The exterior of the building features eight large colorful ceramic panels by Victor Zabolotnikov, sculpted and fired in Tajikistan to depict “The Tree of Life.”
But don’t let the old-world craftsmanship, the brilliantly colored gardens that surround this magnificent teahouse or the breathtaking mountain vistas overshadow the most important reason to visit ― superb tea.
Dushanbe’s (doo-shan-bay) tea list is really a book describing more than a hundred teas. Even a connoisseur will find surprises. Attentive staff members are always prepared with recommendation and their knowledge of tea from origin to steep times is impressive.
