Description
73806 Antique Earth-Tone Turkestan Khotan Rug, 06'09 x 13'02.
This hand-knotted wool Turkestan Khotan gallery rug is a striking fusion of ancient tradition and subtle beauty, crafted with skill and reverence for the region's deep cultural heritage. The central motif unfolds in the form of large, diamond-shaped medallions, each filled with intricate geometric designs that evoke the eternal balance of nature and spiritual harmony. Framing the medallions are delicate floral motifs—pomegranates and stylized blossoms—that gently whisper of fertility and renewal, while the labyrinthine patterns surrounding them suggest a journey through life, guiding the observer toward enlightenment. The open field, punctuated by these captivating symbols, radiates a sense of peace and calm, creating a sanctuary of visual tranquility.
The symbolic language of the Khotan rug extends beyond its visual allure, offering a deeper understanding of Khotan's rich cultural tableau. The alternating medallions, each with its own unique arrangement of flowers and geometric shapes, echo the unity of diverse influences that shaped the Silk Road's cultural exchange. In the center, the repeated presence of hexagons and octagons invokes the sacred geometry seen across many ancient traditions, symbolizing harmony between the earthly and divine. Each corner of the rug features a unique motif that alludes to protection—symbols that shield the viewer from negative energies and guide them toward growth, enlightenment, and prosperity.
Rich with history, this Turkestan Khotan rug also carries echoes of the region’s connections to the Chinese, Persian, and Central Asian worlds. The juxtaposition of earthy tones with darker hues of indigo and charcoal brown calls to mind the vast desert landscapes and the silk caravans that once passed through Khotan, a gateway between East and West. The Khotan rug’s borders are framed by repeating geometric patterns, with elements resembling ancient Chinese coin motifs, representing wealth and the eternal flow of life. The espresso border, deep and powerful, serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of time—of endings and new beginnings, the constant interplay of forces in the world.
Finally, the use of muted tones—camel, beige, faded red, and taupe—imbues the Khotan rug with a timeless quality, as though it has weathered centuries of use, yet retained its ability to soothe and comfort. This antique Khotan rug is not merely a decorative object but a historical artifact that links the past with the present, embodying the spirit of the Silk Road’s cultural crossroads. It invites those who experience it to contemplate the interconnectedness of cultures, the richness of history, and the spiritual journey that transcends time and place. Its elegance and symbolism are not only visual but speak to the soul, offering a quiet invitation to reflect on life's deeper mysteries.
- Abrash. Antique Wash.
- Hand knotted wool.
- Made in Turkestan.
- Measures: 06'09 x 13'02.
- Pile Height: 0.19 of an inch.
- Date: 1910's. Early 20th Century.