Semi-antique Obruk cicim kilim from Turkey. 175x122 cms

Semi-antique 1960s Obruk Cicim Kilim – Grid Design with Scorpion & Star Motifs

This striking semi-antique Obruk cicim from the 1960s features a beautifully organized grid design. Woven with undyed wool—possibly camel wool—the kilim is divided into four square compartments. Each compartment contains a large central motif, likely symbolic representations of scorpions, surrounded by a set of eight-pointed stars. In total, there are 16 stars across the field, adding to its visual rhythm and cultural depth.

The background is crafted from natural, undyed wool, providing an earthy, organic canvas. The intricate motifs are applied using the cicim (embroidered brocade) technique, using dyed sheep’s wool to create vibrant contrast and texture.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool

Size: 175×122 cms

Origin: Obruk, Turkey

Date of weaving: 1960s

Kilims or Gilims are flatwoven textiles with a woollen weft on a woollen, goat hair or cotton warp. There are many different techniques and designs. The weaver normally works within a tradition of techniques, motifs and designs specific to a particular area or ethnic group. The designs relate to her natural surroundings, protection, fertility and the harmony of family relationships. Each weaver adds something from her own creativity and sense of composition. Kilims are often woven as part of a marriage dowry and can be used to create many different objects like storage bags, horse-blankets, baby carriers, blankets and wall and floor coverings.

This kilim was hand-woven on a simple loom by a village or nomadic weaver for her own use. Probably the weaver used wool from her own sheep. The wool was first cleaned, then hand-carded, hand-spun and finally dyed by hand, often using natural dye materials like roots, nuts, berries, fruits, flowers and plants. Kilims from the last quarter of the twentieth century mostly use synthetic dyes. This kilim would have taken many months to complete.

All our kilims selected in the country of origin and are professionally washed and restored before we import them directly from Iran, Turkey and Afghanistan. Natural patina and charming imperfections in design and colour (abrash) are highly valued characteristics of hand-woven kilims.