What is a main carpet?

A main carpet is a large floor covering produced by tribes for domestic use or communal spaces, measuring substantially larger than standard tent bags. These pieces feature repeating primary guls across an extensive field, framed by complex borders that reflect the specific visual traditions of the weaving group.

How were tent bags used?

Tent bags served as functional storage containers inside nomadic dwellings, holding clothing, blankets, and household possessions. Hung against the lattice walls of the yurt, their decorative faces displayed tribal identity and the weaving skill of the maker.

A gul is the characteristic medallion motif found repeated across Central Asian tribal textiles. Different tribes utilised specific forms of these octagonal emblems, allowing observers to attribute pieces to groups like the Tekke, Yomut, or Saryk.

Why do some pieces have silk?

Weavers occasionally integrated silk highlights to add contrast and catch the light against the wool pile. These luminous additions typically emphasise specific details within the primary guls or secondary border ornaments.