The Beauty of a Turkmen Rug: Addictive Tribal Treasures!
Introduction to Turkmen Rugs
The oldest and most important Turkmen carpets remaining from the 19th century AD reflect the taste, style, patience, and endurance of the people in this region of Gorgan Plain in northern Persian country. Passed down from generation to generation to the present day, continue reading this blog if you want to familiarize yourself with the beauty of Turkmen rugs!
The Overwhelming Beauty of Turkmen Art and it’s Challenges
The art of carpet weaving and handicrafts in the Turkmen region is truly captivating, especially when we delve into the beauty of the Turkmen Rug. These intricately designed carpets boast patterns that serve as a rich tapestry reflecting the nomadic lifestyle and culture of the Turkmen people. The creative genius and resourcefulness of the women in this region shine through as they produce magnificent works of art in the field of crafts and handicrafts, despite facing limitations in resources.
The looming economic recession and stiff competition from neighboring countries have cast a shadow over the once-thriving Persian arts, including the revered craft of carpet weaving. In particular, the province of Golestan, home to a large community of dedicated carpet weavers and producers, needs increased support and protection for its artisans. Preserving the beauty of Turkmen Rug requires concerted efforts to safeguard this cultural heritage against external pressures.
Distinctive Features of Turkmen Rugs
The primary material used for making Turkmen carpets is wool from Turkmen sheep breeds. The quality of the wool is assessed based on its lightness and uniform tone, which is crucial for achieving consistent dyeing of the threads. Some Turkmen tribes also incorporate cotton and silk in their carpets, either for creating refined threads or as the carpet’s foundation.
These rugs are woven using an asymmetrical Persian knot, although fabrics like Yoruk and Saryk employ a symmetrical Turkish knot. What sets Turkmen canvases apart from other oriental carpets is the presence of a repeating pattern (known as “gol”) and wide stripes of stylized designs on the short sides of the carpet.
The dominant colors and color palettes in Turkmen rugs are earth tones (mainly brown and burgundy), which form the background of the design. The ornamentation lines utilize dark shades of black, crimson, orange, blue, and green and white.
Click HERE to watch a video on how Turkmen rugs are made!
The Types of Turkmen Rugs
The Turkmen carpets are known as textiles woven in the extensive region inhabited by the Turkmen people, which encompasses Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and Baluchistan (encompassing areas of Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan), according to scientists.
- Tekke
The name “Tekke” was chosen to pay tribute to the largest ethnic group in Turkmenistan, also called Tekke. The unique Tekke carpets, known for their four-piece göl design, are highly renowned both within Turkmenistan and internationally.
- Yomut
(Yomud) carpets of the second type are adorned with vertical rows of octagons that contain depictions of two-headed dogs and various other animals.
- Salyr
Salyr carpets are highly recognized and admired for their unique and eye-catching octagonal medallion design. This design, resembling a star, is divided into four distinct sections, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the carpet. One of the defining characteristics of Salyr carpets is the presence of animal figures in each section of the medallion. These animal figures are intricately woven into the carpet, showcasing the craftsmanship and skill of the weavers.
The choice of animal figures can vary, but they often include birds, deer, horses, or even mythical creatures. The incorporation of animal figures adds a sense of liveliness and dynamism to the carpet, making it visually engaging and captivating. It also provides a glimpse into the cultural and artistic traditions of the region where Salyr carpets are produced.
The octagonal medallion design, along with the inclusion of animal figures, makes Salyr carpets stand out from other carpet styles. It is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the carpet weavers, who have mastered the art of creating intricate patterns and designs using traditional techniques.
- Ersari (Arsari)
The ornamental part of Ersari carpets consists of geometric and plant patterns and borrowed and modified Persian and Chinese symbols.
Turkmenistan is known for weaving not only traditional carpets, but also carpets featuring portraits and various subjects, as well as prayer rugs that are significant in Islamic culture. It is worth mentioning that handmade Turkmen carpets consistently hold esteemed positions at international exhibitions, which is a source of pride for the Turkmen people.
How Can These Rugs Be Cleaned?
There are numerous methods available to maintain the cleanliness of your rugs, but undoubtedly, opting for a professional team to handle the task is the best choice. And what better option than choosing Rouzati Rugs for your rug cleaning in Chicago? Call us at 847-328-0000 ext. 1 or email us at info@rouzatirugs.com to schedule an appointment to get your rug professionally cleaned.
Conclusion
Turkmen rugs stand as timeless expressions of the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the Turkmen people. With their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and meticulous craftsmanship, these Turkmen rugs hold a unique allure that captivates admirers worldwide. From the ancient techniques passed down through generations to the symbolic motifs that tell stories of nomadic life and spiritual beliefs, Turkmen rugs embody the essence of a people deeply connected to their heritage.
Whether adorning the floors of homes, enriching cultural exhibitions, or serving as cherished heirlooms passed down through families, Turkmen rugs continue to hold a significant place in the world of textile art. As we appreciate and celebrate these masterpieces, we honor not only the skill and dedication of the artisans who create them but also the enduring legacy of a vibrant and storied culture.
