Turkmen needlework: a heritage of art and culture
Turkmen needlework is one of the most valuable handicrafts of Iran, which is rooted in the rich history and culture of the Turkmen people. This delicate and eye-catching art is a combination of geometric designs, cheerful colors and cultural symbols that are sewn on fabrics such as felt, wool and silk.
History and features of Turkmen needlework
Turkmen needlework has a long history and is rooted in the beliefs and customs of this people. Turkmen women used needle and thread to sew beautiful and diverse designs on their clothes and other items used in daily life.
- Designs: Turkmen needlework designs often include geometric shapes, flowers, bushes, animals, and religious symbols. These designs are usually sewn on the fabric in a similar and repetitive manner.
- Colors: The colors used in Turkmen needlework are very diverse and cheerful. Red, blue, green, yellow and orange colors are among the most used colors in this art. Each color has a special symbol in Turkmen culture.
- Raw materials: Felt, wool and silk fabrics are used for Turkmen needlework. The threads used are often made of silk or cotton.
Types of Turkmen needlework
There are many types of Turkmen needlework, each of which has its own characteristics. Some of the most famous types of Turkmen needlework are: - Black embroidery: this type of needlework is sewn on white fabrics using black threads and geometric patterns.
- Colored needlework: In this type of needlework, a wide range of colors are used and it has more complex designs than black embroidery.
- Floral needlework: In this type of needlework, flower and bush designs are used, which gives it a special beauty.
Applications of Turkmen needlework
Turkmen needlework has various uses. Among others, we can mention the following: - Dress decoration: Turkmen needlework is used to decorate local dresses, wedding dresses and formal dresses.
- Decoration of home textiles: tablecloths, pillowcases, curtains and other home textiles are decorated with Turkmen needlework.
- Making handicrafts: bags, shoes, panels and other handicrafts are produced using Turkmen needlework.
Symbology in Turkmen needlework
Each of the designs used in Turkmen needlework has a special meaning and is a symbol of the beliefs and values of this people. For example: - Star: symbol of sky, light and divinity
- Moon: symbol of femininity, beauty and fertility
- Sun: symbol of masculinity, power and life
- Tree of life: symbol of life, growth and connection with nature
The importance of preserving and reviving Turkmen needlework
As a valuable cultural heritage, Turkmen needlework needs to be preserved and revived. Teaching this art to the young generation and supporting needlepoint artists can help the sustainability and development of this art.