Funerary cloth; Turkey, 19th century.

Funerary cloth; Turkey, 19th century.
Velvet.
Measurements: 202 x 156 cm.
Funeral cloth of red color decorated in the border area with an embroidered frieze. The piece presents kufic details in the interior area. The center is dominated by a profuse rosette of round format that is divided into super-supposed concentric rings.
Turkey is a region renowned for the quality of its textiles. These were made in different sizes, from small panels to larger pieces used in a decorative as well as functional way. But above all it was the magnificent carpets, in many cases ceremonial or for the imperial palace, that ensured the reputation of Turkish weaving. The Ottoman government controlled production and encouraged exports, which provided important sources of revenue. But the market was fluctuating. In addition to the numerous conflicts that hindered the regular supply of raw silk, there were the usual difficulties experienced by large merchants and weaving corporations.