Felt carpets (so called ‘kyyz’) are still a part of the culture of the Balkar and Karachay peoples, being as much useful as they are decorative. Traditionally these beautifully adorned carpets are used to demonstrate a family’s wealth and the skill of its womenfolk.
Felt production among Turkic nomads dates back to pre-historic times, as it is tightly connected with cattle-breeding. Most of the ancient motifs of felt decoration are vines, trees and birds. Sheep wool was processed by women, who spun it into felt carpets with exquisite patterns. These carpets were an integral part of wedding and burial rites.
Later, these carpets, now decorated with geometric motifs, became a part of Muslim rites and mosque decoration. They are used as carpets for Salah prayer. The side of the carpet that is turned towards Mecca is rounded off.
As home decorations, felt carpets are often made by means of appliqué. Traditionally, they were used to cover long shelves with cloths and dishes. The artistic composition is built around contrasting combinations of black and white, with the lower edge of the carpet fringed.The best wool is sheared in autumn, its high quality grants long service and the preservation of the ornament on felt.
Lada Ledeneva, exclusively to VK.
