The design is characterized by two
medallions, one a star, the other a diamond, set in a lattice
like field of flowers and leaves. The design has a transitional
quality between the strict orthogonal geometry of the earliest
known carpets and the more curvilinear quality of later
designs. The pattern is considered by some to be a
precursor of the Medallion Ushak, by others, a
contemporary development. It's "Rorschach blot" quality gives it
an elemental power. The large format Ushak designs have also been linked to tile
and bookbinding designs (shown above right, drawing of Ottoman
Bookbinding from 1465). Some scholars have also associated these
Ottoman designs with Persian Safavid patterns, however the
direction of the influence is passionately debated. This bookbinding predates
the Safavid Empire and may relate to earlier Seljuk designs,
perhaps supporting an earlier date for the emergence of these
motifs in carpets as well.. |