Bergama Prayer Rug

Mid 19th century, 113 x 97 cm, North West Anatolia

Designs and ornaments whose origins go back far into the past of the Anatolian weaving tradition continued to survive in the rugs of the Bergama region well into the 19th century. This red-ground prayer rug featuring two white coupled columns and a tower-like mihrab field is a good example. Instead of a lamp, a white carnation is suspended from the apex of the arch. The composition ultimately harks back to 16th century Ottoman models. A diamond with a quatrefoil interior drawing marks the centre of the field, and the two blue motifs seen next to the arch are highly abstract water jugs. Published by Herrmann as early as 1982, this prayer rug belongs to a small group closely related in colour and design. – Slight signs of wear, very good overall condition, original finishes all around.

HERRMANN, EBERHART, Von Konya bis Kokand. Seltene Orientteppiche 3. München 1980, Nr.4 *** REINISCH, HELMUT UND LISBETH, Von Bagdad nach Stambul. Nomadenteppiche. Graz 1983, Nr.46 *** BATTILOSSI, MAURIZIO, Tappeti d’Antiquariato. Catalogo III. Turin 1988, Nr.8 *** RIPPON BOSWELL, A 68, 18.11.2006, #179

HERRMANN, EBERHART, Seltene Orientteppiche 4. München 1982, Nr.4