Antique Filikli Rug with Polychrome Stacked Niches
N°
06160
Period
Circa 1900
Origin
Anatolia
Materials
Wool
Status
Available
Size
146 x 102 cm4'9" x 3'4"
Filikli rugs represent probably the earliest, most primitive form of weaving known to mankind, veritably untouched over the course of a few thousand years. These were originally intended as a woven substitute to fur, hence the long fleecy pile. Filiklis are woven using unspun mohair wool, which is then dip-dyed with the colour of choice; this rudimental method results in a non-uniform dyeing of the yarn, which ultimately contributes in creating a kind of woven sculpture, with long, cascading lustrous polychrome Angora wool in geometric, minimalist patterns. The design composed of stacked niches seen here is an ancient Turkic pattern, rendered here with Modernistic simplicity.
U. Hirsch, ‘The Fabric of Deities & Kings’, Hali, vol. 13, n. 4, (London, August 1991): 104-111. J.T. Wertime, ‘Back to Basics – Primitive Pile Rugs of West & Central Asia’, Hali, Issue 100 (London, 1998): 86-97.