The W. Kenneth Thompson Antique Yomud Turkoman Asmalyk

The W. Kenneth Thompson Antique Yomud Turkoman Asmalyk
Antique Yomud Turkoman Asmalyk/trblsrc
Item # 931580714

tribalsource

Turkoman Asmalyk, Yomud Tribe, Central Asia, 19th century, 4’2” x 2’2”

Frrom the Tribalsource auction description
The asmalyk is, in effect, an animal trapping, used over the flanks of the camel during the wedding procession. Usually made in pairs, they cover both the rear flanks of the animal. As they are integral part of the dowry, they have survived in numbers, kept for posterity by the tribal people who wove them.
This is a very colorful and interesting example of the type. While the field ornamentation exhibits the classic qualities often seen in these weavings, the border ornaments are very different and suggestive of a sub group of the Yomud, possibly an “eagle group” type.

The reciprocal trefoil minor border is extremely unusual and often signifies this sub group attribution. The primary border with repeating “kotchanak” devices is also extremely rare and possibly suggestive of little known sub group of Yomud weavers.
The colors are clear and beautifully saturated, with lovely red shades as well as spots of gold/yellow, indigo and blue/greens.
COLORS- All natural dyes, extremely saturated. CONDITION- IMMACULATE condition, with no obvious or hidden flaws. No holes, no stains, no repairs. Fresh handle, good wool. This is an antique weaving, therefore it cannot be expected that it will be in “new condition”. The terms used for describing condition are consistent with common usage in the marketplaces all over the world. Obvious flaws including repair, holes and stains WILL BE noted in all descriptions. CONDITIONS OF SALE - Buyer will pay shipping (by US priority mail for US shipments) + insurance. International buyers will be informed of shipping expenses by email. Personal checks, money orders and credit cards are accepted through Billpoint, Paypal. If you are located out of the United States, please disclose your location so I may calculate the shipping charges prior to dispatch of payment. Use the BUY IT NOW option to ensure delivery BEFORE CHRISTMAS or NEW YEARS!!

N.B. I spoke briefly with Ken about this piece after he acquired it. First of all it is one of a pair and Ken acquired the mate as well. The structure is interesting. The knot is asymmetric open right but it appears to have symmetrical edge knots. It is also tightly woven but there is a good bit of variation with extensive offset knotting. One could argue this into the Eagle Gul Group II.

Note: To further a long term research project I am collecting data. When a piece such as this may be of interest to others I have decided to share my notes prior to culmination of the project. Any additions, information, or corrections, would be appreciated.

The W. Kenneth Thompson Antique Yomud Turkoman Asmalyk

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