The great fascination of the carpets from eastern Turkestan, better known as Samarkands, is best explained in terms of the perfect balance between the force of the geometric design and the graceful eloquence of the curvilinear motifs. This unusual grey ground example, woven during the glorious Art Deco years, is distinguished by parallel rows of stylised pomegranate trees, symbols of fertility, each sprouting from a small vase placed at the base of the composition. This ancient motif is characteristic of this area and is represented on the rugs of the oases of Khotan and Yarkand since at least the 17th century.