Oriental Rugs Dictionary
Yarkand
Yarkand rugs are carpets woven in East Turkestan (modern Xinjiang, China), particularly around the historic city of Yarkand.
These rugs often display a blend of Central Asian, Persian, and Chinese influences, with designs including medallions, lattice patterns, and stylized floral motifs.
Yarkand carpets are an important part of Silk Road textile traditions.
The Yarkand oasis was a major caravan center not only for the east west Silk Route but also for commercial and cultural contacts with India. The carpet production was mainly in wool, but included a few silk rugs characterized by clearly defined, sharp designs which tend to be less crowded than those of other areas. The vase and pomegranate and three medallion designs are the most common, and guls were also popular. A number of Safs are known as well.
Yarkand carpets are usually distinguished by their thick light blue wefts.
