Page 26 - Azərbaycan xalçaları

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The figure of a bull or ox, considered the symbol of moon worshipping, decorates the central part of the
emblem of the Shirvanshah state of the 15th century. To remind viewers of the lunar symbol, the bull figure’s
horns were deliberately depicted in the form of a crescent.
Tigers woven on the carpets of Karabakh reflect strength in the symbolism of Turkic peoples and are also the
carriers of all human feelings. The figure of a tiger played an important role in the development of the genealogy
of tribes settled in ancient Azerbaijan, Central Asia, Altay, and the Yenisey river basin, and it was one of the main
totems. The figure of a tiger can also be seen in the ancient Altay astronomic calendar.
The figure of an eagle or hawk seen on Karabakh carpets is the source of sun and light. In the art of Turkic
peoples, the eagle symbolizes the lord of sun, fire, lightning, and thunder.
The totem of a dragon often observed on the carpets of Karabakh is a mythical animal widely used in the
arts and daily life of the peoples of Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and even in the territory of Siberia. The totem of a
dragon is the animal spirit that helps people to have a successful life.
The dragon is the embodiment of strength, flexibility, wisdom, and foresight. It was believed that dragons
took the lead and shed light on roads during Sumerian rituals. Ancient people believed in the existence of dragons.
One can also observe the figures of lions woven on the carpets of Karabakh. Since ancient times, lions were
considered a sign of sun, fire, serenity, and might in the East. The Sumerian God of War was drawn as a winged
lion.
In the religion of ancient Turkic peoples, totems played an important role. Totem beliefs are one of the most
ancient forms of religion. In totems, ancient people embodied their worship of animals. The totem was also a
symbol of tribes. Ancient people believed that totems could protect them.
The elements that are more visible and take the main place in the general design of Karabakh carpets can be
divided into five groups:
a) The Buta. As one of the most widespread motifs, the Buta is seen on both flat-weave and pile-weave carpets
of Karabakh.
“Khatai” dragon carpet. Karabakh group. Shusha, Azerbaijan.
Wool pile-weave. XVII century. Private collection. 224 x132
Figures of horses woven
on the carpets made
in many regions of
Azerbaijan are also often
observed on Karabakh
carpets. Horses used to
be one of the main totems
among Oghuz tribes.