A Study of Anatolian Kirkit Weavings at the Carpet Museum of the Directorate General of Foundations of the Republic of Türkiye within the Framework of Fundamental Art Concepts
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.16947/fsmia.1737409Keywords:
Anatolia, kilim, carpet, weaving, artAbstract
Anatolian kirkit-woven textiles are among the most significant elements of Turkish
cultural heritage, reflecting the belief systems, cultural values, and aesthetic sensibilities
of the Turkish people. The carpets and flatweaves that have survived from Çatalhöyük
to the present day were initially created to meet basic needs; however, over time, they
transcended functionality, acquiring an artistic identity and evolving into works of art
with high aesthetic value.
Turkish communities migrating from Central Asia to Anatolia adopted the belief
systems and lifestyle of the region, making Anatolia their homeland. The multi-layered
cultural accumulation of Anatolia, combined with the rich knowledge and experience of the
Turks, gave rise to kirkit weaving — a unique and deeply rooted Anatolian textile tradition.
When examined within the framework of Basic Art Concepts, it is possible to
identify traces of these principles in Anatolian weavings even before the fundamental
elements and principles of art were formally defined by artists. The motifs, colour usage,
and compositional arrangements found in kirkit-woven textiles demonstrate that these
works are not merely utilitarian craft products but artistic creations shaped by a refined
sense of aesthetics.
Created by weavers in accordance with their own visual preferences and aesthetic
perspectives, these textiles also reveal the remarkable artistic sensibilities that developed
among Turkish artisans throughout history.
The carpet and flatweave samples analysed in this study were selected from the
rich textile collection of the General Directorate of Foundations. Within the scope of
this research, the motifs, colours, and design characteristics used in these textiles were
evaluated through the lens of Basic Art Concepts, emphasizing their role and significance
within the broader context of the art of weaving.
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