Oriental Mihrab prayer rug, Pakistan, 1960s

Description

Oriental Mihrab prayer rug, Pakistan, 1960s

Hand-woven Mihrab prayer rug made in Pakistan in the 1960s. Traditionally flat-woven and dyed in shades of red and beige. Mihrab rugs are a type of prayer rug used by Muslims during prayer. They are characterised by a distinctive design with symbolic religious meaning. The central element is the mihrab, an arched motif resembling a niche in the wall of a mosque, indicating the direction of Mecca, known as the qibla. The mihrab motif on the rug indicates the direction in which Muslims should face during prayer. It is often surrounded by other religious symbols, such as stylised minarets, oil lamps, tree-of-life motifs, or floral designs, which may symbolise a spiritual journey or other aspects of faith.

Mihrab rug designs can be geometric or more organic, depending on the region in which the rug was made. Some rugs feature richly decorated mihrabs, while others are more minimalist. They are often woven in deep, saturated colours such as reds, navy blues, greens, gold, beiges, and blues. Colours often have symbolic meanings. Red may symbolise the blood of martyrs, while green is the colour of the Prophet Muhammad. Contrasting colours are used to emphasise the mihrab arch and other important design elements. They are most commonly made from high-quality wool, which is soft and durable. In some cases, silk is used to highlight details in the design. In more luxurious versions, silk may be used for both the warp and the weft, giving the rug an exceptional sheen and delicacy. The rugs are hand-woven using traditional techniques that vary by region. The Persian asymmetrical knot is often used, allowing highly detailed designs to be reproduced. Knot density can vary, but it is very high in high-quality rugs, enabling the creation of intricate and precise patterns. Mihrab rugs are usually small to medium-sized, perfectly suited to individual use during prayer. Thanks to their distinctive designs, Mihrab rugs are also valued as decorative interior accents. They can be used as wall hangings or as collectible works of art. They combine functionality with aesthetics, serving not only as spiritual objects but also as beautiful examples of traditional artistic craftsmanship.

The rug has been preserved in its original vintage condition. It shows signs of age-related wear. Before shipping, the rug will undergo professional cleaning and will be ready for use.