Turkmen Carpets

Turkmen carpets have long been a cornerstone of Turkmenistan’s cultural heritage, emerging from the practical needs of daily nomadic life. In bygone eras, nomadic tribes utilized a variety of carpets, each serving a distinct purpose. These included prayer rugs, decorative pieces, carpets for family celebrations, and those doubling as wardrobes and beds. Such carpets were integral to nomadic life, providing both functional benefits and aesthetic appeal. They adorned traditional yurts, helped retain warmth during the cold months, and could be used to partition large spaces. Additionally, carpets were draped over the backs of horses and camels or spread across open fields to create a comforting and familiar environment.

As the Turkmen people transitioned from a nomadic to a sedentary lifestyle, the art of carpet weaving evolved into a revered craft. This shift allowed the intricate skills of weaving to be developed into a sophisticated applied art form. Passed down through generations of women, the craft involves meticulous attention to the selection of high-quality materials and dyes. From the very beginning, Turkmen carpets were designed to be enduring masterpieces, reflecting both the skill of the weaver and the cultural heritage of Turkmenistan.

A Turkmen carpet holds the same significance to Turkmenistan as tulips do to Holland or cigars to Cuba. One theory suggests that the distinctive patterns, known as goli, have their origins with Oguz Khan, a legendary figure considered the ancestor of the Turkmen people. Some experts believe that the sun symbol, prevalent in the patterns of Turkmen carpets, dates back to ancient sun worship practices in the region.

Turkmen carpets are renowned for their strict geometric patterns and rich shades of red. However, despite these common traits, each Turkmen tribe boasts unique designs and ornamentation that are distinct from one another. A defining feature of each carpet is its specific seal, which varies according to the tribe and region where it was woven.

Creating a Turkmen carpet is a remarkable feat of artistry and craftsmanship. Each carpet is a testament to the weaver’s skill, taking an immense amount of time and effort to complete. On average, a weaver ties around 3,000 knots per hour and meticulously beats the carpet with an iron comb. The process involves thousands of blows each shift, with the comb and fibers weighing over a kilogram. This demanding work is repeated daily for weeks or even months. Thus, when appreciating or purchasing a Turkmen carpet, one should recognize it as a true masterpiece, crafted with extraordinary dedication.

The Ministry of Carpets in Turkmenistan oversees the export of these exquisite handmade carpets and collaborates with international galleries to showcase select pieces. Visitors to Turkmenistan can explore more than 200 antique Turkmen rugs at the Turkmen Carpet Museum in Ashgabat, including one of the world’s largest carpets, spanning 301 square meters and featured in the Guinness Book of Records. Every year, on the last Sunday of May, Turkmenistan celebrates Carpet Day at the museum, featuring special ceremonies and exhibitions that honor this cherished tradition.