ter in strong coloring. Yellows and a
sort of lead-white are much used in these rugs; again, blues and
ivory-white are seen, while reds, pinks, greens, and a deep orange are
common. The Chinese fret, the dragon, and fishes are among the designs
employed. The Tree of Life is of frequent occurrence, but is a crude
representation.
_Khalatch_ rugs are woven by a division of the Ersari tribe of the upper
Oxus, bearing the name Khalatch. They are included under the one greater
head of Turkomans. The rugs are recognized by the single stripes of
bands that divide the field both vertically and horizontally. These
bands are ornamented with single motifs, and are generally considered to
be the earliest decoration of woven fabrics. Besides the bands, stars,
crosses, forms of the hook, and small prayer niches,--one at the top and
one at the bottom, but each facing in the same direction,--are seen.
Often a stark tree effect is noticed. In the trade these Turkoman rugs
are commonly called Kchatchli (pronounced Hatchli--Bokhara).
_Khiva_ rugs are woven by Turkomans inhabiting Central Asia. The
firmness, durability, and bold grandeur of these rugs render them very
pleasing. The field is of one of the splendid reds so much favored by
this great race. Arranged over the field are large forms of the lozenge.
Frequently these large forms contain smaller lozenges, which are very
decorative. Often a part of the larger lozenge forms are indented at
both top and bottom. There is generally a stark tree form between the
lozenges, in a peacock blue color. Much ivory is used throughout the
field and border, in heavy lines of demarcation. These rugs are sold
under the name of Afghan in the Western market. Well-toned shades of
red, blue, tan, ivory, and an occasional green are the usual colors.
Sometimes a Khiva has a long panel centre, with a prayer niche. In many
fine specimens the lustre is an added attraction.
_Samarkand_ rugs are a product of Central Asia. They show distinctly
Chinese characteristics. Sometimes the field is covered with round
medallions, from one to five in number, holding odd figures. The Chinese
fret is common in the design, and sometimes a large crude flower
arrangement is noticed. Reds, magenta, green, blues, a soft fawn, white,
and much yellow, especially in the border, are the usual colors. Soft
and rich, these rugs have a distinctive character, and are attractive.
Their texture, however, is quite thin, and they are no
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