A Study on the Historical Framework of Uşak Prayer Rugs
Chapter from the book:
Pala Yavuzyiğit,
Z.
(ed.)
2024.
Current Works in Traditional Turkish Arts.
Synopsis
During the Ottoman Empire, Uşak province came to the fore as one of the most important weaving centers. It has gained a great reputation internationally with its techniques and motifs applied especially in the field of carpet weaving. In this context, the history of Butler prayer rugs is directly related to the subtleties and riches of carpet making art. At the same time, it is one of the most important works showing the carpet culture, art and intricacies of Anatolia. Butler prayer rugs, 15. and 16. it was used to perform prayers in mosques and palaces in the classical period, that is, in the century. Prayer rugs are usually embroidered with an altar motif, decorated with plant motifs and geometric patterns. 17. and 18. by the turn of the century, exports to Europe began to be made through Butler prayer rugs. Prayer rugs sent to Europe were used as a decorative element in churches and palaces. 19. during the century and after, the production of butler prayer rugs decreased. The existence of factory production in the recent times of the Ottoman Empire has caused the production of traditional prayer rugs to weaken. But this tradition has nevertheless continued to be preserved. However, today, Butler prayer rugs continue to be of interest today, as in the past. However, the traditional features and patterns of these prayer rugs are preserved and kept alive by modern Butler rugs. In this context, the study aims to consider the past and present of Butler prayer rugs from a historical perspective. Thus, a literature related to the academic studies, historical process, traditional motifs and patterns and production of these prayer rugs in Turkish Islamic art has been presented.