Cultural symbols and motifs deeply reflect the beliefs, stories, and various rituals of the societies in which they exist. In the rich tapestry of Turkish culture, the profound influence of the nomadic lifestyle has transformed weaving into an art form. Kilims, as one of the most prominent examples of this art form, with their complex motifs and layered meanings, have endured to the present day, preserved as an important cultural treasure.
Interpretation and Understanding of Certain Motifs Employed in Kilim Weaving:
Hands on Hips
Represent: Fertility, motherhood
The "hands on hips" motif is prevalent in many variations on kilims which are flat tapestry-woven carpets. The figure's arms are depicted by two hooks facing inward, while a triangle or diamond represents the body, and typically, a diamond represents the head. The Elibelinde symbolizes fertility and motherhood and is among the numerous kilim motifs frequently woven into Turkish flatweave rugs.
Wolf's Track
Represent: Protection
The wolf's track is a common motif in kilim designs, symbolizing protection and guidance. It is often used in rugs as a talisman against evil, styled in the form of a wolf's foot and mouth. The wolf itself is a symbol of bravery and protection, with its ability to see in the dark leading to its association with light and the sun. This motif is particularly prevalent among nomadic tribes, who hold a deep respect for wolves as creatures of power and wisdom. These tribes believe that the wolf's track motif not only wards off evil spirits, but also brings good luck, making it a significant element in their cultural and artistic expressions.
The Double-Beaked Mirror
Represent: Power and Resurrection
The double-beaked mirror motif consists of a combination of dragon, ram's horn, and wolf track motifs. These three animals are significant figures in Turkish culture and are believed to protect the home from evil, according to legends. The ram's horn symbolizes power and strength, while the dragon and wolf's track represent protection. The poplar motif, located at the center of the main design, symbolizes death and resurrection. Consequently, this rug was often used to cover the coffin at funerals due to the belief in resurrection after death, and was later donated to the religious center.
Scorpion
Represent: Protection
The scorpion is one of the oldest animals on Earth. Its deadly sting has created a fearful situation for people living in arid regions. Consequently, the scorpion motif, used in Anatolian weavings and symbolically representing the devil's soul, is one of the motifs used for protection from potential external dangers. In Anatolia, the scorpion figure is a commonly used motif in carpets and flat weavings among the public. People believe that the scorpion motif protects the rug.
Cross
Represent: Protection
A cross is a geometric design formed by two lines or bars intersecting each other, typically at a right angle. These lines generally extend vertically and horizontally. An oblique cross, resembling the Latin letter X, is referred to as a saltire in heraldic terms. According to Anatolian tradition, the cross weakens the power of the evil eye by splitting it into four sections. This motif has origins that predate Christianity.
Eye
Represent: Protection
The evil eye, or "nazar," is a folk belief that dates back to the depths of history. Negative outcomes caused by ill-intent, malevolent gaze, jealousy, and other negatives have been referred to as the "touch of the evil eye" among the people, and various symbols have been developed for protection against it. The most important of these is the "eye". The eye motif is woven into the beginning and end of carpets and flat weaves, specifically in the part called "kilimlik". In this way, it is believed that the touch of the evil eye on the weaving and the weaver will be prevented. At the same time, these textiles are a kind of amulet laid on the ground, believed to protect the weaver's home and happiness from the evil eye.
Tree of Life
Represent: Divinity
It represents the axis of the world that connects the three parts of the universe: The underground world where its roots are spread, the world of humans where its body is directed, and the celestial sphere where its branches are spread. This inverted tree, whose roots are in the celestial sphere, emphasizes that the universe was created by God with its body and branches directed towards the earth. The basic feature of this tree is to be an "endless vitality and source of life". Its other features have changed from society to society. The Tree of Life symbolizes God. People have attributed divinity to the tree of life due to its characteristics.
Evil Eye - Amulet
Represent: Protection and luck
The amulet pattern is embroidered on kilims to protect from evils. It is believed that this motif will protect the place where it is found and its owner from the evil eye, and therefore it is woven into the kilims.
Chest of Horse
Represent: Happiness
It has become a symbol of longevity, happiness, prosperity, truth, and good news.
Stamp Mark
Represent: Protection
Throughout history, it is known that Turks have used certain figures, signs, and stamps to express concepts such as tribe, tent, state, and clan. These stamps and signs represent the existence of the community or individual. The purpose of this is to protect not only the continuation of the family name and lineage, but also the family's valuable possessions.
Bird
Represent: Power and strength
The bird motif, which is part of the figurative ornamentation group, has been assigned various meanings, sometimes positive, sometimes negative, drawing from different lifestyles, traditions, and customs across cultures. The ability of birds to fly symbolizes spirits transcending the boundaries of the universe. Birds, associated with faith, are emphasized with the symbolizing wisdom, intelligent and agile thinking. Birds like owls and black crows are seen as symbols of bad luck, while doves, pigeons, and nightingales are used to symbolize good luck. The bird is a symbol of happiness, joy, and love. It symbolizes power and strength. Birds also point to divine messengers and a long life.
Running Water
Represent: Life
It is likened to noisy and unbalanced water because of its zigzag pattern. Water is one of the most valuable parts of life. The waterway design also represents life, vitality, abundance, purity, renewal, and rebirth.
Knife Edge
Represent: Precision
It symbolizes a very small (difference), very narrow (path), very close (range).
Hook
Represent: Protection
The hook, an Anatolian motif utilized for protection against the evil eye. It has also represents the keys of the castle featured in the legend of The Liberated Legacy of Sivrihisar rug.
The Sitting Dog
Represent: Friendship
It is a symbol of friendship and loyalty, it has also become an emblem of patience and reliance.
Ram's Horn
Represent: Power
It symbolizes power, strength, health and happiness, the productivity of a man, and the power to sustain and protect.
Dragon
Represent: Protection
Known as a large and double-headed snake, the dragon, a mythological creature that appears in fantastic forms with different applications, is a symbol of immortality in the Sumerians' Epic of Gilgamesh, a distributor of healing in Hellenic and Roman civilizations, a protector of goods and life in Seljuk caravanserais, and a symbol of eternal life and infinity in Artuqid and Seljuk fountains. In the Middle East Anatolia, it symbolizes hostility and evil. When used on the edges of the rug, it indicates that the enemy is harmless, whereas when used in the middle, it signifies that the enemy is harmful and dangerous.
Fertility
Represent: Fertility
The motif of hands on hips represents a woman, while the ram's horn motif represents a man. The fertility pattern comprises two "hands on hips" motifs and two "ram's horn" motifs. The eye motif at the center of the composition is used to protect the family from the evil eye.
Poplar
Represent: Resilience
The symbolism of the poplar tree can vary across different cultures and contexts. Generally, it embodies resilience, courage, and determination, reflecting the poplar tree's capacity to endure harsh conditions and thrive in diverse environments. In Turkish culture, the poplar tree, known as "kavak", is often linked with strength and durability, inspired by its tall and sturdy stature. The ability of the poplar tree to grow tall and straight symbolizes standing firm and resilient in the face of adversity. The poplar tree is also revered for its height, reaching towards the sky. This has led to its association with death and resurrection.
Comb | Hand
Represent: Protection
The comb motif in kilim rugs, often mentioned in conjunction with the hand motif, is typically associated with marriage and birth. It symbolizes the desire for marriage and the protection of new life from malevolent influences. The motif also represents the hand, a symbol of human creativity and power, distinguishing humans from animals. In Anatolia, the hand motif has been interpreted realistically and stylized in weaving. It is created geometrically, often in groups of three, five, or seven. It consists of various rod forms attached to a body, and depending on the context, can represent a hand, finger, or comb. Furthermore, the comb motif is often seen as a symbol of femininity, domesticity, and the role of women in society. This reflects the historical role of women as the primary weavers of kilim rugs, and the use of these motifs as a form of personal expression and storytelling.
Fetter
Represent: Union
Fetter is the name of the chain attached to the two front legs of a horse to prevent it from going far into the pasture. The carpet patterns and meanings inspired by this chain symbolize love, unity, and the stability of the family.
Burdock
Represent: Protection and abundance
Burdock, a plant known for its sticky burrs that attach to human clothing and animal fur, is thought to have the ability to repel the evil eye. Meanwhile, the phrase "like a burdock" is synonymous with being flower-filled, which explains its depiction on flour bags as a symbol of abundance.
The Six-Pointed Star
Represent: Productivity
The six-pointed star, commonly known as the Seal of Solomon, has been in use since the time of the Phrygians, who resided in Anatolia long before Solomon's era. Therefore, it's not incorrect to suggest that the 'Seal of Solomon' carries a meaning beyond its common interpretation. The star-shaped rug motifs, symbolic of diligence and productivity, carry a hidden meaning - the weaver's intention to express their family's hard work and diligence.
Rose Branch
Represent: Blessing
For newlyweds, a rug featuring the rose branch motif is given as a gift with the wish, "May your family grow, may your children be plentiful and healthy, and may your family branch out and expand."
Little Frog
Represent: Wisdom
It represents the mysteries of life and wisdom.
Chickenfoot
Represent: Protection
It is a protective symbol that drives away evil spirits. It is named chicken foot in the region because it resembles a chicken foot.
As we unravel the complex language of Kilim motifs, we not only appreciate the intricate artistry but also delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Turkish culture, understanding how every thread weaves together stories, beliefs, and a heritage that continues to endure and inspire.