The production of ikat velvet (just as with normal ikat dyeing) sees the warp threads bound off and dyed in the planned pattern before weaving. Only afterwards are they actually woven. Ikat velvet is woven using a special technique with which the weaver aims to create ‘pile’ (loops of yarn which are left and then cut on the front side of the item) and, by extension, a velvet effect. The present wall hanging made of ikat velvet dyed in two shades of red (light and dark) as well as in green, white and black depicts a primary motif of two large Trees of Life, next to the apex of each sit two birds. There are additional smaller Trees of Life between the large trees, on the side edges and on the upper edge. The piece is decorated on both sides with wide borders set with medallions, and at the bottom, a single-line black and white inscription in Arabic script completes this ikat velvet item. The piece is underlaid with light brown cotton fabric. There are loops at the top and on both sides so that the wall hanging can be hung. There is minimal loss of the velvet pile to the lower edge. Otherwise no damage.
Dimensions: c. 190 cm x 115 cm.
Between c. 1900 and the first half of the 20th century. (ME)

Provenance: Viennese private collection.