The carpets of the Muslim World are renowned for their beauty and technical excellence. They have been used as floor coverings,
wall hangings, storage bags, cushions, blankets, and saddle covers. Patterns range from simple to extremely complex, depending
on the events of the time and the type of patronage available. Some were used in tents transported by nomads and others adorned
the palaces of contemporary rulers. Some became known as great works of art and were sought after by collectors and connoisseurs
across the known world.
Today, carpets are still vigorously traded and continue to be identified as one of the great arts of the Muslim World. The overall
floral design is reminiscent of a garden that is always blooming, regardless of the time of year. The inscription reads:
"O you who have had the blossom-filled meadow of the highest heaven spread out in your path,
the rose garden of your carpet is the envy of the picture gallery of China!
The patterns and leaves in the garden of your carpet show the hyacinth, the basil, the wild and the garden rose and the jasmine.
This carpet is spread out on the path of a king so sublime that the servant who carries his mat is better than the Emperor of China!
O you who are exalted in the world!
Even those who have been dust on your path are exalted in both worlds for sure.
The sun has kissed your feet with the flowers on the carpet;
out of a desire to kiss them he places his face on the ground."
A counterpoint to this carpet would be the smaller prayer rug used by Muslims exclusively for prayer. Unlike this carpet, a prayer rug
would not contain representational images in its design. Such images are forbidden in Islam because only God (Allah) can give life to
creation. The differences between the secular and spiritual uses of carpets reflect the diversity found in the Muslim World.
|
