Antique Obruk kilim from Turkey. 183x132 cms.

An antique Obruk kilim with natural dyes.

The composition of this antique Obruk prayer kilim is distinctly characteristic of Obruk weaving. The two Trees of Life flanking the prayer arch, with a third rising from within it, the particular form of the niche, the white crenellated motif separating the borders from the field, and the cross motif in the outer border are all hallmark elements of Obruk work. Kilims are still woven today in the Konya–Obruk region using similar designs and color schemes; however, modern synthetic dyes cannot replicate the depth, harmony, and subtlety achieved with traditional natural dyes, in this case a soft and harmonious colour palette contrasting with a deep indigo blue.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool

Size: 183x132cms

Origin: Obruk, Turkey

Date of weaving: late 1800s or early 1900s

OBRUK PRAYER KILIMS

This settlement has shrunk in size since the demise of the renserai; however, its traditionally patterned prayer kilims are known wolteve.

Obruk patterning is very easily recognized, and once seen never forgotten. It incorporates a hooked prayer arch with a tree of life situated at the apex of the niche and with two floating trees placed on either side. The tree design is often repeated in the centre of the prayer niche, sometimes alone, otherwise in pairs and triplets. The field is at times left plain and undecorated. Two or three main borders are present, with smaller, less important borders.

represents a mirror-image bull’s head. This pattern is repeated down the field of the kilim, surrounded by one main border and small infill motifs. Old Obruk kilims are woven in reds, blues, greens, and browns. More modern kilims still feature the same traditional compositions. They are made in medium and medium-fine slitweave work, as well as in supplementary-weft-wrapping technique. Prayer kilims are generous in size.

From “kilims: The Complete Guide” by Alastair Hull and José Luczyc-Wyhowska