Antique Samarkand Carpet, c. 1920

This masterfully knotted early 20th century Samarkand carpet depicts a floral pattern at its center, framed by an ornate geometric border. Sometimes referred to as khotan carpets, Samarkand rugs are all from an area in central Asia once called East Turkestan, now known as Xinjiang province, China. Hand-woven with vegetable-dyed wool, this antique carpet has a balanced composition and a beautiful, soft palette of oranges, pinks, and browns. From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.

One of the most remote locations in Asia, the area known as East Turkestan was a pivotal stop along the Silk Road, uniting the cultures of India, Persia, and China. This rich multicultural mix is reflected in the exquisite carpets created in the region, which combine Turkoman designs with Islamic motifs and Chinese color palettes. For centuries, nomadic weavers from all across East Turkestan have travelled to the oasis towns of Samarkand, Kashgar, and Khotan to sell their woven wares. Dated to the early 20th century, this beautifully knotted Samarkand carpet is patterned with a traditional design of branching red pomegranate trees...

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