Ghiordes pattern prayer rug

late 19th-early 20th century

Islamic , Anatolia, Ghiordes (modern western Turkey)

The distinctive design of this prayer rug identifies it as having originated in the city of Ghiordes (ancient Gordion): a field of stylized flowers surrounds a mihrab, or prayer niche, with a mosque lamp hanging above. This prayer rug was not created as a purely decorative object-the pattern of wear at the bottom of the mihrab tells us that it was well used, even several times daily, in prayer.

Pile-woven wool

73 1/4 x 55 in. (186.06 x 139.7 cm)

Gift of Mrs. Breck P. MacAllister in memory of her mother, Mrs. William C. Heussy

62.169

Not currently on view

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