Similar Motifs in Tibetan and Anatolian Rugs
How Similar Motifs in Tibetan and Anatolian rugs have intertwined over the years. Now I want to share this with you a little bit.
Various records refer to the dragon by different names, such as “kök luu”, “büke,” “evren,” “nek,” and “abırga”. Other cultures also have their names for this motif. During the Ottoman era, people called it “Nihang” in Arabic, which later became known as “tannin.” The Mongols referred to it as “moghur,” and the Iranians identified it as “ejderha” (dragon).
Significance of the Dragon
The dragon, symbolizing empires in the Far East is believed to hold significance to symbols like clouds the tree of life, and birds. Recent discoveries include animal figure rugs from the century some of which are Tibetan Buddhist monastery rugs believed to be woven in Anatolia. These rugs belong to the Tibetan Group and are characterized by their origins in terms of color, material, and weaving technique.
The Tiger Stripe Motif
Another common motif is the tiger stripe symbolizing three attributes associated with Buddha, majesty, power, and protection from harm. This design can be found on Ottoman sultan and prince robes in Uşak rugs from the 16th and 17th centuries. It bears a resemblance, to the shapes seen on tiger rugs.
The Tiger Stripe Motif
The lotus flower, a symbol found in Tibetan rugs is depicted as a central medallion, with ten directions on Bergama rugs, four primary, four intermediate, one upper, and one lower. Another common botanical design shared in rugs is the motif.
The Cloud Motif
The cloud motif, also known as the cloud is frequently seen in the borders and occasionally in the background of Uşak rugs. An intriguing example from the century showcases a Uşak rugs where the cloud motif adorns the entire background.
The Knot and Swastika Motifs
Another geometric motif shared across cultures is the knot, of interlocking, patterns seen in Turkish art dating back to the Seljuk era. This pattern can be found in the borders of Holbein and Lotto rugs. Similarly, the swastika is another used, motif.
Checkerboard Patterns and Simple Geometric Designs
In addition to motifs, checkerboard patterns, and simple geometric designs adorn Tülü rugs from Central Anatolia and Gabbeh rugs from Iran.
The apart from motifs, there are similarities in how these rugs are used. For instance, Tibetan meditation rugs designed for side-by-side meditation bear resemblance to prayer rugs crafted for side-by-side prayer.
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