18th century, 1591 x 18 cm, Central Asia, West Turkestan

In this very long and narrow tent band, the rare designs arranged in a spacious layout are a captivating feature. It is one of the oldest decorative bands woven by the Saryk tribe that may be dated to the 18th century. The design is a sequence of compartments which vary in length and are separated by horizontal stripes. They contain various types of geometrically drawn devices, either diagonal crosses, poles decorated with hooks or long tree forms. The four divergent compartments containing small transversal trees are striking. Inside the tent, the band was wound around the posts of the dome so that the trees pointed in the right direction, i.e. upwards. Unlike other tent bands, the design of this item is not conceived in mirror image around a central device. There is an obvious similarity to Goklen bands, suggesting that a connection existed between the two tribes.

Completely preserved, damaged sides in some places, several stains, good overall condition.