Ensi

Ensi- Part of the Yomut nomadic tribe from Western Turkestan.

Ensi rugs were often used as door hangings on tents or yurts. They are directional with a central cross motif dividing the field into four panels. The design is also called hatchli which means cross in Armenian. The central cross or pole represents the tree of life. The lower portion of the rug is associated with the ground or earth. The upper portion is associated with the sky or heaven. Climbing vines from the ground to the borders create a meander design.


Individual designs vary due to each tribes traditions. The ground color is typically dark red with field designs in black and borders are often white with pale red. There is a Elam or skirt woven as a kilim to protect the field from wear caused from rubbing the ground. Ensi are made from local material including sheeps wool and natural dyes. They are generally small in size made on portable looms and woven by women. The motifs are passed down from mother to daughter causing design evolution over time.

More of Ensi

Turkmen Carpets