Vintage Anatolian Cicim Kilim with Female Elibelinde Motifs in Hand-Woven Wool

An exceptional vintage Anatolian kilim, a woven chapter of Turkish history and a powerful example of textile folk art. 

This is more than a rug; it is a silent language of symbols passed down through generations of women, a tangible piece of a rich and ancient cultural heritage.

Crafted in Central or Eastern Anatolia in the mid-20th century, this remarkable piece is a traditional Cicim kilim, a highly prized form of flat-weave. Using a specialised supplementary-weft technique, the weaver has created raised, embroidery-like motifs that give the surface a stunning textural depth and character. This intricate, time-intensive process was often reserved for the most significant textiles, particularly those created as part of a bride's dowry.

The rug's story unfolds in its potent symbolism. The deep green border is a powerful chorus of twelve Elibelinde, or 'Hands on Hips', figures—an ancient Anatolian symbol of motherhood, fertility, and feminine strength that traces its lineage to the Neolithic mother goddesses of the region. These figures stand as benevolent guardians, enclosing a warm, terracotta-hued central field that represents the sacred hearth of the home. This inner sanctum is further defined by a serrated edge of 'running water' motifs, a timeless symbol of life, purity, and abundance. The composition as a whole is a woven prayer for a protected, prosperous, and life-filled home.

Hand-woven from durable, hand-spun wool, the rug's rich and harmonious palette speaks to its authentic origins. Every colour — from the deep forest green to the madder red and saffron yellow — is derived from natural vegetable and mineral dyes. This traditional process results in the beautiful, subtle variations in tone known as abrash, which give the piece its unique character and soul.

A heavy, thick, and durable piece, this kilim is perfectly suited for grounding a lounge room or bedroom and is robust enough for high-traffic areas. Its potent symbolism and authentic, artisanal character make it a captivating focal point, a piece that brings not just beauty, but a profound sense of history and soul to any contemporary space.

Dimensions: Height: 195 cm, Width: 143 cm 

Materials and Techniques: Hand-Woven Wool, Natural Vegetable Dyes

Place of Origin: Turkey (Anatolia). circa 1960

Condition: This vintage piece is in excellent condition for its age and history. It has been professionally washed and cleaned. The structure is sound, and it shows minimal, even wear consistent with its heritage.