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All Islamic World

Camel Trapping from Turkmenistan

Camel trapping (asmalyk), Turkmenistan, Tekke people, 19th century. Wool; knotted pile, asymmetrical knot; 85 x 128 cm. The Textile Museum Collection 1980.13.2. Gift of Arthur D. Jenkins.

Before the Russian conquest of 1881, nomadic and seminomadic Turkmen tribes lived independently in the mountains, desert and oases of modern-day Turkmenistan. The Tekke were one of the most populous and influential of these tribes.

This decorative panel, called an “asmalyk,” was likely woven by a Tekke girl in preparation for her wedding. According to tradition, the bride rode to her husband’s camp on her camel, in a covered litter (palanquin) draped with a white curtain to conceal her from view. The camel was festively adorned with small hangings and two large pentagonal panels, hung one on each side to cover its flanks.  

This fine asmalyk is woven in wool pile with a design unique to the Tekke tribe. It features offset rows of birds, each one ringed by wedge-shaped leaves or feathers in white and deep blue. The ivory border is woven with the “curled leaf meander” design seen in some Caucasian weavings. Originally this panel would have had tassels hung from a wide, hand-braided border on the vertical sides and bottom. 

Decorative camel trappings like this example would have been hung in the new couple’s tent once they were settled and were only lightly used. As a result, some asmalyks have survived in excellent condition.  

A black and white photo of two men on horseback and camel, with an elaborate trapping on its back.
Hudaibergen Divonov, “Wedding Palanquin of the Yomut,” 1924.
A group of eleven children in elaborate clothing sitting in front of a small yurt.
Sergei Mikhailovich Prokudin-Gorskii, “Group of eleven adults and children, seated on a rug, in front of a yurt” (detail), 1905-1915. Prokudin-Gorskii Photograph Collection, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division 2018681252.
Sergeĭ Mikhaĭlovich Prokudin-Gorskiĭ, “Sands starting to grow over with plants near Repetek station, Turkmenistan” (detail), 1905-1915. Prokudin-Gorskiĭ Photograph Collection, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division 2018681271.
Researched by Amy Rispin

Amy Rispin served as a volunteer and docent with the museum for nearly 20 years. Before that, she worked at the Environmental Protection Agency where she represented the United States in negotiating international health and safety standards through the United Nations and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.