Oosters tapijt c. 1875 - 1900

This ‘Oosters Tapijt’ or Oriental Carpet was made by the Tekke people, a Turkmen tribe known for their distinctive carpet designs. The deep reds and geometric patterns, rendered in wool, aren’t just decorative. They carry the weight of cultural identity, acting as visual emblems of the Tekke community. Historically, carpet weaving was a task carried out by women, so this rug offers a glimpse into their lives, labors, and creative expression. These carpets were often part of a bride’s dowry, a tangible symbol of her skills and her family’s status. The motifs woven into the fabric, generation after generation, told stories of lineage and belonging in a world that was often volatile. Through these carpets, the Tekke women had a space for self-representation where they could weave their personal narratives and preserve their cultural heritage.