2nd half 19th century, 160 x 117 cm, western Central Anatolia, Eskisehir province

VOK Collection, Anatolia 18

This small-format flatweave belongs to the group of Anatolian zilis (formerly known as cicim). All the motifs seen in this symmetrically conceived and precisely drawn design are brocaded. Divided into two halves by a vertical bar placed on the central axis and decorated with three large diamonds, the ivory field contains diamonds of varying size and interior drawing arranged in rows as well as eight octagons. The narrow border shows diamonds aligned in a row, and the elems are each decorated with four horizontal rows of small S-shaped motifs. Flower-like three-pointed devices are seen along all the vertical axes. The subdued colour scheme and coherent mirror-image composition create a harmonious and meditative expression. According to Hirsch, this zili served as a wall hanging or wall niche curtain. The Vakiflar Museum in Istanbul owns a very similar example (inv. no. 52) originally in the Takvacilar Mosque of Kütahya. – Patinated with age, various stains. Good overall condition.