Turkmen

This Turkic nation is located in the Central Asian countries of Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and northeastern Iran.

Turkmen had a complex tribal structure divided into diverse tribes and clans. Gradually, to enhance their safety, they formed larger tribal units. During the times of the Russian Empire, Turkmenistan was recognized as and independent country.

Before the end of the 19th century, Turkmen tribes wove and tied carpets mostly for their own yurts and daily needs. Therefore the older carpets are small, only reaching up to 2,7 m long.

It is not difficult to distinguish Turkmen carpets and fabrics. In central part of the carpet the most prevalent colours range from foxy brown to brick red, or even eggplant violet – it all depends upon the quality of the paint as well as the influence of the bleach used for wool preparation. Ornaments are called gol (meaning “a flower”). They are geometrical and arranged in columns, often including distinct tribal signs and heraldry.