semi-antique Uşak kilim from Turkey. 271x185 cms

A semi-antique Uşak kilim from Turkey with three large medallions set against a deep red background. The main field showcases a beautiful abrash or colour change. The rounded edges, as opposed to more angular and sharp shapes as it is typical of kilims, it is one of the features of Usak kilims.

Uşak has been a weaving centre for a long time, and it is noted for producing Anatolia´s largest kilims. Generally have a large central medallion surrounded by a sizeable ground field usually of plain red, featuring decorated borders. In this case, three large medallions ocupy the central red field.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool

Size: 271×185 cms

Origin: Uşak, 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 vintage 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.