A Discourse on Rugs

Our area of the world is a haven for beautiful rugs! Rugs of all sizes, with bright, rich, vibrant colors. The people generally have few other handicrafts, as the art of a culture usually begins with what is needed. Historically, these people were a nomadic culture, and in fact, still were until only around 75 years ago! They lived in the traditional nomadic housing called the yurt by outside cultures. One of the most useful additions to a yurt was a rug to cover up the sand, dirt, or low grasses that the yurt surrounded. It had no permanent floor. So, early on, this culture practiced the art of weaving.

The traditional design is the "fleur de lis" shape you see in all these rugs. We have been told that this design resembles the shape of the ram's horns which symbolizes strength and freedom.

The rug above is made of hand spun sheep's wool, as well as hand-dyed. We understand from many that to add flowers and/ or animals was only practiced by the most expert of women weavers.

The rug below is made of camel's wool that has been felted. Of course, all done by hand.

The art is dying, quickly becoming lost. It is only being practiced in the small villages, and only a few old women even do this anymore. Instead, smaller, souvenir sized trinkets are being made, and even then synthetics are being added for convenience and ease. It is truly a shame!

The rugs are worth a fortune in the west, but many families are selling off these treasures for a song; apparently cell phones and satellite dishes are more important now. Do these people understand the heritage they are losing and trading off for something so much less valuable??

Here is one a friend of mine's mother made recently. She enjoys doing this in her spare time, but unfortunately her skill can never compare to the her foremother's talents.

I can expound on my theories about why the quality of these rugs, like most every other area of our host people's work, has gone south. Suffice it to say that the system of communism has taken its toll on creativity and work ethic. Although they've moved away from Communism, the devastating effects are entrenched. They are no longer careful or patient, which is sorely reflected in all areas of craftsmanship. Sad.