Saddle Cover

Unknown

last quarter 19th century · Wool (warp, ground weft, and pile); symmetrically knotted pile · Islamic Art

Elaborate caparisons, or ornamental coverings for horses and camels, are an essential part of almost every nomadic art tradition. Textiles were often designed to cover leather saddles. Some examples, including this one, feature side panels to provide cushioning for the rider’s thighs. The floral motifs, rendered in a naturalistic style, are characteristic of Bakhtiari tribal works. Also common among Bakhtiari carpets is the symmetrically knotted pile technique the weaver used here.

Artist

Unknown

Date

last quarter 19th century

Medium

Wool (warp, ground weft, and pile); symmetrically knotted pile

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Inger G. and William B. Ginsberg, 2015