Decorative and rare antique kilim (flatweave) Sivas – Sarkisla, or Konya/Hotamis, with warm, plant-based colors. Anatolia, Konia region. In very good condition, with intact colors and slight, delicate abrash. Very small and limited insignificant restorations. Last quarter of the 19th century. Cm. 241 x 171
Expert technical data sheet of the work:
Natural, yet vivid yarn and colors (vegetable dyes: madder red, walnut black, indigo-yellow green, indigo blue).
Very regular, yet manual symmetry and complexity. Presence of classic, non-"commercialized" motifs.
Probable origin:
This type of design is very characteristic of the Kilim area of Sarkisla or Hotamis (Central Turkey). The multiple vertical panels are typical of the production of Sarkisla (Sivas) and Hotamis (Konya) or tribal areas near the Taurus Mountains (Toros). The white border rich in “protection” motifs is very common in Yörük kilims.
Structure and Symbolism:
A. Red Vertical Panels
Each panel is a type of “strip of life” ? each column tells a portion of the story. The central motifs are “elibelinde” (symbol of woman / fertility) and protective eyes (rhombuses with central crosses).
B. Rhombus motifs with a cross inside
Protective eye wards off the evil eye. The rhombus can also represent the female womb.
C. Borders with "H" or hooks. The white "H"s are symbols of protection (hook, çengel), often called "çengel" or "koçboynuzu" if they look like ram's horns ? strength and masculinity.
D. Palmette floral motifs in the outer borders. Very decorative, but also a symbol of prosperity, protection of the perimeter. These are similar to the motifs of kilims from Aksaray or Kayseri, although the layout here is closer to Konya/Sivas.
4. Function
Probably a dowry or wall/ceremonial kilim, given its size and elaboration. It is unlikely to have been used as an everyday floor covering. Some of these kilims were also used to cover cradles or ritual objects.
In summary
Date approx. 1875-1900
Area of origin Sivas – Sarkisla, or Konya/Hotamis
Main symbols Fertility, protection, vitality, cyclical energy
Style Vertical panelled, classic of central Anatolian tribal kilims.
In accordance with the provisions of the New Code of Cultural Heritage, the selling company provides, at the time of sale, a detailed written photographic guarantee of originality and provenance of the works sold. The data with which the works are described and then contained in the written guarantees are expressed determinations resulting from accurate and documented technical/historical/artistic investigations, including expert appraisals.
