Kilim c. 18th century

This Kilim, or flat-woven rug, is rich with symbols passed down through generations. Dominating the design are the large, repeating motifs, perhaps representations of stylized animal forms, or talismans meant to ward off evil. These geometric shapes resonate with symbols found across cultures – echoes of ancient protective emblems. Observe the smaller tree motifs along the rug's border. The tree, a symbol of life, growth, and connection between the earthly and divine realms, appears in countless iterations, from the Tree of Life in ancient Mesopotamian art to the family tree. Such symbols tap into our collective memory. Their enduring presence speaks to our innate, shared need for connection and protection. As these motifs reappear throughout history, they remind us of the cyclical nature of human experience, where the past is never truly gone, but constantly resurfaces in new forms.