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

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

Uzbek Napramach, Late 19th Century

Country of Origin: Uzbekistan

Size: 130 cm x 40 cm


Uzbek Napramach, Late 19th Century

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

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

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

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

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