Rare Turkoman Okbash - Tent Pole Bag. Circa 1890

A rare Turkoman weaving. Okbash is the term for weavings / bags made for covering the pointed ends of the Yurt (tent) poles during migrations. This piece is from the Turkomen Yomut tribe*. Circa 1890.

In excellent condition, wool piled, with natural dyes. Beautifully rich red, brown and indigo (dark blue) colours. Original braided long wool handles and colourful tassles.

Dimensions of main bag: Length = 68cm; Width = 25cm.
Tassles: 60cm long (max).

*The Turkmen camel caravan during migration would use a camel to carry the tent roof rods, which were split evenly into two bundles and tied to each flank of the camel, with the pointed ends to the rear. These pointed ends were then covered with a long bag called an 'okbash' (made in pairs) with long tassels. The okbash was knotted in one piece then brought together and sewn up, leaving an opening at the top. Made by Yomut Turkomen tribe.