Napramach Rugs
Guide to Napramach Rugs & Carpets
Napramach is the Uzbek word for a small bag typically used as a mat to sit upon. In use they are very similar to the Balisht of the Baluch or the Pushti used in Iran. I wonder if the Yastik of Turkey may also be the descendent of small bag as well. Of course that is speculative.
A point to consider is the dual use concept in nomadic cultures. I used to go on extended solo backpacking trips in the winter. I might go days without seeing any other human being. What I had I carried with me so size and weight were a consideration. As is typical for backpackers I looked for things that had multiple uses. In a nomadic culture a grain bag becomes a cushion to sit upon or lean against. Once the family leaves the life as herders they still may weave the cushions with a back since that is they way that they are used to using.
Examples:
Uzbek Napramach, Late 19th Century
Country of Origin: Uzbekistan
Region: Central Asia
Period: Late 19th century
Size: 84 cm x 45 cm
Notes: Good pile, both sides repaired. Reduced in length.
Uzbek Napramach, Late 19th Century
Country of Origin: Uzbekistan
Size: 130 cm x 40 cm
Uzbek Napramach, Late 19th Century
Country of Origin: Uzbekistan
Size: 105 cm x 39 cm
Notes: Sides missing and overcast.
Uzbek Napramach, Late 19th Century
Country of Origin: Uzbekistan
Size: 80 cm x 44 cm
Notes: Pile worn. Reduced all around.
Uzbek Napramach, Late 19th Century
Country of Origin: Uzbekistan
Size: 158 cm x 52 cm
Notes: Good pile, lower end reduced. Sides original.
Uzbek Napramach, Late 19th Century
Country of Origin: Uzbekistan
Size: 133 cm x 40 cm
Notes: Fragment, mounted on the back of a Chuval.
Uzbek Napramach from Cocoon
Country of Origin: Uzbekistan
Size: 2 ft. 6 in. x 1 ft. 2 in. (81 cm. x 39 cm.)
Weft: Wool
Warp: Wool