Prayer Rug

DateSecond half of 18th century

MediumWool

DimensionsOverall (H x W): 67 x 46 1/2in. (170.2 x 118.1cm)

Credit LineGift of Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Jr.

Object number1979-217

DescriptionThe center of this prayer rug features a dark blue mihrab with all over beige floral patterning, with the flowers oriented in the opposite direction of the mihrab (upside-down). The mihrab is typical of those made in Ghiordes with a stepped top (see 1979-214). The sides and bottom of the mihrab are outlined in three rows of black chevrons on a beige ground, and the top is outlined in two straight parallel lines of black on a beige ground.

The rest of the inner portion is on a light blue ground with red, three-petalled flowers, all pointing down. Three of the flowers have their colors inverted (white petals with red outline) and one has white petals outlined in black. On the top and bottom of the inner rectangle are rectangular inserts, each with four stylized carnations alternating white (or yellow) and red.

Surrounding both the inserts and the central rectangle is a thin border with a curvilinear motif, perhaps suggesting a ribbon. Surrounding that border are twelve additional borders of alternating ground color and simplistic floral patterns. The innermost border has a light blue ground with white flowers; the next has a white ground with red spots; the next seven alternate between white and black grounds with red and white flowers (respectively), after which follow repetitions of the spotted border, the light blue ground, and again the spotted.

The top and bottom of the rug has warp fringe, and the knotting averages 95 knots per inch.

Label TextThe central panel of this prayer rug is in the shape of a mihrab, or the niche in mosques that orients toward Mecca so worshipers can face Mecca while they pray. Similar in use, the mihrabs on prayer rugs would be pointed toward Mecca when used for prayer. The shape of the mihrabs in prayer rugs is often indicative of their place of origin.
InscribedNo marks or inscriptions.
ProvenancePurchased by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller for use in Bassett Hall, 1927;
Given to CWF, 1979.

MAKER HISTORY:
As of 1920, Kula’s main industry was rug making.