Saryk Turkmen Chuval, mid 19th Century (or before), 3' 6" x 2' 8 "
| As well known and highly sought after, weavings of the Saryk are some of the most unfamiliar and least studied group of Turkmen weavings. For example, they are the only group of Turkmen weavings that are dated using the following nomenclature - early period, middle period & third phase. What actually determines this classification has not really been fully articulated in the literature. The third phase of Saryk weaving was conducted in the Pendeh region of Central Asia, weavings that exhibit a dark and somewhat ominous palette. Middle period weaving seems to be characterized by the presence of some cotton (as seen in this example) and possibly majenta dyed silk (also present here). First phase weaving is all wool, but with a similar palettte as seen here with the characteristic prsence of a beautiful gold dye as well as a clear and distinctive madder red ground colour.
I am guessing this piece may be a transition piece, earlier rather than later, and possibly dating to the earliest phase of the middle period, given the palette and quality of drawing including beautifully formed 'gols' and a lovely drawing of the border. The condition of this example is some what apparent in the photos; the side border to the left is fragmented and ther are NO original selvedes intact. There is some wear in the pile, specifically across the top half with a couple small holes. |
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