Kilims - Turkish

The etymological root the word kilim is not known exactly but it has been seen in the Turkish language since the 13th century. The word "kilim" is misused in other languages to refer to all flat weaves other than rugs. However, the word kilim is only a name for a weaving technique. Among kilims there are different makes, including cicim, zili and sumak. For centuries, these different designs were traditionally passed down from mother to daughter. Turkey is the only country in the world that has preserved all the different techniques.

These weaves are made by tribe members or by villagers for daily needs. They are named after tribes, families, villages and towns that they are made in, or even after the motifs used on them. The Yoruks and Turkomans have also placed their tribal signatures among the patterns, making these weaves cultural objects as well. According to the latest research, these motifs reflect all the rich cultural heritage of Anatolia, and for that reason each motif is a symbol or interoperation of the values that were created by people from different cultures.

Catal Huyuk in Anatolia is one of the oldest known urban settlements in the world. The evidence from this important archaeological site indicates that the city came into existence sometime around 7000B.C., and that its residents were not only successful farmers, hunters and herdsmen, they were also skilled weavers. Traces of wall paintings contain designs that are still found on Turkish kilims. It is said that kilims of the time inspired the paintings, because of the suggestion of knots and woven material included in the artwork. There is also evidence that the kilims themselves were hung on walls the excavation has revealed unexpected blank spaces on the painted walls, with tiny holes where the rugs may have been secured.