Nap.—Splendid soft, velvety, closely clipped wool. Sometimes some goats' hair or silk.
Weave.—Renowned for its close texture.
Sides.—Overcast in wool which is dyed the predominating color of the rug. Occasionally selvaged.
Ends.—A web from ten to twelve inches in width at each end which is colored the same as the body of the rug. This is finished with a fringe of loose warp ends. Sometimes there are twisted ropes at one end, showing that it was intended for hanging. This is especially common in the prayer Tekke.
Border.—One to five border stripes, usually three.
TEKKE BOKHARA RUG
BY COURTESY NAHIGIAN BROS., CHICAGO, ILL.
Designs.—Elongated octagon forms arranged in rows alternating with rows of diamond forms with straight lines connecting the centres of the octagon, each of which is divided into four equal parts. In the centre of each octagon is frequently found the eight-pointed star. Sometimes the field is covered with octagon or the diamond forms alone without the alternate arrangement. In the prayer rug the field is covered with little candlestick patterns and divided into four sections by a large cross, the arms of which carry designs similar to those found in the border stripes.
Prevailing Colors.—Ground usually of a rich dark mahogany red with designs in blue, green, orange, old rose, wine, and pink, with more or less white or cream.