Turkmen Torba, Tekke, Central Asia, 19th century, 3' 2 " x 1' 6"

An interesting 'torba', as the nine gol format is very unusual within the context of Tekke weavngs. Much more common are the six gol (a classic theme of which there are many examples of varying qualities) and the less common 12 gol torba (and considered less desirable than the previously mentioned). The drawing is a bit elliptical - the gols are flattened out - but the border is one thought to exclusively distinguish weavings from an earlier period than when this was made (circa 1870 or so). Damage not withstanding, it is an interesting example in, albeit, a bit rough condition. All the colors are derived from natural dyes.

For further information on this piece, you may contact Thomas Cole