Bukhara Ikat Chapan
CH6: silk

There could be no clearer example of how design elements crossed over between ikats, suzani and rugs than this ikat chapan. The motifs are virtually the same as in the small Beshir rug ( R5). It seems most likely that the rug weaver was picking up on this ikat design rather than the other way round. This appears to be a woman’s chapan in The sophisticated color palette with plum/burgundy, golden-yellow, pink, and red. The motifs feature pendant amulets worn for spiritual protection and earrings that were viewed in Central Asia as a sign of wealth. The combination of these motifs creates a robe that adorns the wearer with symbolic jewellery and protective elements. The deep plum color achieved with natural dyes (likely madder root with specific mordants) was expensive and highly prized. This would have been a prestigious garment for special occasions – weddings, festivals, or important social gatherings.