Story

In the presence of genius and history. This is one of 5 known Tiger rugs woven in Saruk in the 19th century. A tiger pelt is laid out across the field with a clutter of seemingly random objects around. This carpet was woven for a leading member of one of the main Sufi brotherhoods of the time. Sufi dervishes would wander around the countryside with their meager personal possessions, all of which we see on display, all seeped in age old symbolism. The dervish would cover himself with a tiger skin pelt, its color symbolizing closeness to the earth and its nature referring to the brutal struggle against the forces of nature. The twin axes also reiterate this message. The cap, known as the 𝘛𝘢𝘫 or crown, was made out of camel hair which also linked the mystic messenger to the literal salt of the earth. A begging bowl called the 𝘒𝘢𝘴𝘩𝘬𝘶𝘭 dangles to either side and shows us how the wandering Sufi would earn his daily subsistence. Further down are two chessboards which reflect wisdom, patience and strategy; all of them qualities the brother was encouraged to cultivate. A sword lies flat at the bottom, a metaphorical device to smite away evil and temptation.

The intoxicating detail and incredible fineness are way beyond high quality Saruk commercial weaving. As mentioned, this was a special commission or honor granted to a high ranking Sufi seer. This explains how it has been so well preserved and looked after, as a communal heirloom. It is a historical document and living proof of an influential way of life that no longer is. Museum level.