Taurus Mountains Kilim. Anatolia. Circa 1960. 120 X 85 Cm

When a Pattern Comes to Life

The Turks humorously call this pattern “fishbone.” The image immediately comes to mind: elongated, jagged shapes crisscrossed by small lines seem to trace the bones of a particularly geometric fish.
In the central field, these shapes shift and echo one another without forming strict symmetry. Yet the overall composition remains very orderly. It is this slight imbalance that gives the design its movement: the surface vibrates, almost as if the pattern were shifting before our eyes.

The Pattern and Its Origin

This distinctive composition, combined with the piece’s colors, allows connoisseurs to trace the kilim’s origins to the Mut region in the Taurus Mountains, in southern Anatolia. The rug is woven wool-on-wool, and its colors indicate the use of plant-based dyes.

A vivid and contrasting palette

Garnet red and brick red lend warmth to the field. Bright orange enlivens it, while deep purple and nearly black brown enhance the contrast. Ivory brings light; the pale, slightly grayish green introduces a softer note. The alternation of these colors accompanies the shifts in the pattern and accentuates the impression of movement.

Handwoven kilim
Wool on wool
Natural dyes
Mid-20th century
Perfect condition
DIM: 120 x 85 cm

Choosing an antique rug or textile is often a matter of serendipity.
If one of our pieces catches your eye, or if you’d like more information or photos, I’d be happy to speak with you.

Laurent Consul
Beauty of Kilims
06 42 61 73 46