Antique Prayer Rug. Konya. Anatolia. Circa 1880. 125 X 74 Cm

A marvelous rug featuring a mihrab bordered on the inside with small eyelets (symbolizing a desire for happiness) and decorated in the center with two tarantulas, as if to ward off harm (talisman). Above the mihrab are two stylized, cross-shaped roses (symbolizing love). The inner border depicts the Garden of Eden (Paradise), and the large outer border features not a series of snakes (protective talismans), but rather dragons protecting the roses of Love… The weaver desires nothing but happiness and passion with her husband, and wishes for him to be protected from deadly animals, misfortune, and malice (see the four small protective eyes at the top of the field).
Woven and knotted wool-on-wool.
Exclusively plant-based dyes.
The piece is in very fine condition.
A true work of art, suitable for hanging on the wall or placing on the floor, in a bedroom for example.

Circa 1880 or earlier
Dimensions: 125 x 74 cm

Laurent
Beauty of Kilims