Antique Banja Luka Textile (Balkans) Ottoman n°:94591111

Textile Description

This is an antique Ottoman “Banja Luka” textile woven during the mid of the 19th-century circle 1850’s and measures 190 x 122CM in size in Balkans. This piece features a center extra-large blossoming flower flanked by two columns that ascend towards the top of the piece and connect to create a traditional mihrab design. At the bottom of the field, there also are located traditional Ottoman homes and Cypress trees. At the top, the mihrab is surrounded by many different blossoming flower motifs which add to its beauty and aesthetics. the main border of this piece follows the same field design with repeating vase motifs with different blossoming flowers all ascending towards the top of the textile. This piece has been preserved in overall excellent condition which adds to its rarity and collectability. Explore our amazing collection of European textiles.

The prayer rug from Banja Luka is one of the most recognizable works of art produced in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Unlike other Ottoman prayer rugs, the examples from Banja Luka were not woven but embroidered. Their base was made of chokha (felt cloth), a kind of heavy coat, to which small pieces of chokha cut into flower and leaf shapes were sewn. In the center, there was a floral motif in a vase, and a floral decoration was placed along the border. Higher quality specimens were decorated with silk and gold threads. The iconography was influenced by Ottoman Baroque and local heritage. It is believed that the first examples appeared in the 17th century, and the last were made in the mid-19th century. They were very likely produced in northern and northwestern Bosnia. The rugs are named after the city of Banja Luka, an important administrative and commercial center in the region. Scholars hypothesize that these prayer rugs served as decoration in Ottoman army tents as well as in the homes of Ottoman nobles. special thanks to professor Alberto Boralevi 

At Mollaian srl we try to do our best, giving a new life to some of antique rugs with minor problems, that may have affected by age. So, apart from what is visible on the presented photos, it should be noted that the rugs are professionally cleaned, and where necessary, the Selvages/Sides and Ends/Fringes have been secured. Upon request, we can provide a complete condition report (including any retouch performed by our restoration team), if it is not already presented down below.

Condition:

• Intact Item (There is no any restoration have been made on this rug by our restoration team.)

• Mostly in overall good condition