Yomud OkBosh, Central Asia, 19th century, 2' 2"" x 2' 5"
| Weavings of this type have been the subject of speculation for some time now, often considered to be "tent pole covers", ie. to cover the ends of the poles that are used to construct the yurt. Needless to say, the opulent materials with which they are made, the general condition in which they appear in the marketplace, as well as the size of these weavings precludes this function. Strictly ornamental, they may have been used to decorate the camel used in the wedding procession, but certainly never fulfilled such a mundane function.
The design is vibrant, recalling feathered aarows. In any case, it is a dynamic design accentuated by the relatively wide diagonal lines of pattern and the clear, beautiful colors employed. The triangular flaps at the bottom are nicely decorated in an unusual manner. The condition is good (apparent in the photos, not full pile but sufficient to show off the colors to their potential) and all the colors are derived from natural dyes. |
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