Lot 378 AN ANTIQUE TURKMEN YOMUD OKBASH (TENT BAG WEAVE)
Up for auction is a rare and culturally-historically fascinating rarity of Turkmen tribal art: An antique Yomud Okbash (Ok-bash), crafted around 1900. Traditionally, an Okbash served the nomadic Turkmen tribes as a protective cover for the pointed ends of the collapsed yurt frame poles during migrations. This exquisite collector's item captivates with its characteristic, powerful zigzag pattern (Ashik motifs) in a deep, typically Turkmen color palette of rich mahogany red, indigo blue, and contrasting ivory accents. A special highlight is the presence of the original, all-around decorative tassels, which lend the object an extraordinary three-dimensionality and museum-quality authenticity. Crafted using a fine knotting and weaving technique, the textile artwork is in an otherwise good and structurally firm state of preservation. As an honest testament to its nomadic use, the piece features a missing area (a hole) in the upper right, which can easily be secured if desired (see detailed photos). Due to the rarity of this type of object, it represents a highly coveted exhibit for any discerning collector of Turkmen textile and tribal art. Condition: Otherwise good (authentic collector's condition, one missing area/hole in the upper right). • Dimensions (Metric): 63 by 50 cm (measured without tassels).