What the heck is this?

[Joe Lawrence Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Joe Lawrence]

Ok, cleaning out the attic today yielded this piece that was acquired in Istanbul some years ago by my brother in law and gave it to my wife and I in Zurich. My brother in law is extremely knowledgeable in carpets and textiles going back to the 70’s working in the Hamburg rug quarter.

We never opened it up and today we looked at it out on the deck and we’re both amazed at the fact that we had no idea what it is. Upon first inspection, immediately I could tell it was from Türkiye but other than it more than likely being nomadic and not intended for the market, The only thing that comes to mind is usage in a yurt or a migratory dwelling.

the piece is 103 x 78 inches (261 x 198cm) and is woven together from 4 sections. There is some evidence of usage wear and tear and also older moth damage. It does have a seal and although I should know the seals and dates, I do not. I haven’t paid much attention to them since some fraudulent sellers put them in to look old.

Anyway, here it is.

[Joe Lawrence Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Joe Lawrence]

Apparently it is a Cicim or Jijim or a Parde. Used for a few uses such as a tent divider, curtain or wall hanging which would explain the woven loops on one side. One is included in the pics from my post.