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"Bellini" Carpet

17th century
Not on view
The center of this carpet features a doubling of the distinct octagonal pattern found in some classical "Bellini" rugs (such as no. 22.100.114). The significance of this unusual keyhole-shaped motif is a source of debate. Some scholars interpretet it as a fountain associated with ablutions (ritual cleaning) before prayer or link it to a keyhole design known from depictions of the Ka‘ba. This holy building in Mecca is traditionally shown as a black cubicle with a surrounding colonnade that resembles a keyhole. Others see in it a mihrab, or prayer niche indicating the direction of Mecca. While these interpretations all relate to prayer and symbolize a gateway to paradise, the shape also resembles the horseshoe arch found in the architecture of Islamic Spain and northern Africa.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: "Bellini" Carpet
  • Date: 17th century
  • Geography: Made in probably Western Turkey
  • Medium: Wool (warp, weft and pile); symmetrically knotted pile
  • Dimensions: H. 69 in. (175.3 cm)
    W. 53 in. (134.6 cm)
  • Classification: Textiles-Rugs
  • Credit Line: The James F. Ballard Collection, Gift of James F. Ballard, 1922
  • Object Number: 22.100.89
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

More Artwork

More Artwork
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"Star Ushak" Carpet, Wool (warp, weft and pile); symmetrically knotted pile
"Star Ushak" Carpet
probably 17th century
The 'Nigde' Carpet, Cotton (warp and weft), wool (pile); symmetrically knotted pile
The 'Nigde' Carpet
18th century
Carpet with Scrolling Vines and Blossoms, Silk (warp and weft), pashmina wool (pile); asymmetrically knotted pile
Carpet with Scrolling Vines and Blossoms
ca. 1650
Ushak Medallion Carpet on White Ground, Wool (warp, weft and pile); symmetrically knotted pile
Ushak Medallion Carpet on White Ground
first half 17th century
Prayer Rug with Triple Arch Design, Wool (warp, weft, and pile); symmetrically knotted pile
Prayer Rug with Triple Arch Design
probably late 18th century

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