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Felt has been made and used by Central Asian nomadic peoples for over two and a half thousand years. Traditionally, in countries such as Kyrgyzstan, nomads lived in yurts made of and decorated with felt, migrating from winter lowland pastures to summer mountain meadows with their herds of sheep, cattle and horses. The Merino and Karakol sheep that are raised produce some of the finest wool in the world. Since Stalin began his collectivisation programme in the 1930s, the nomadic way of life has gradually diminished but the rich felt-making tradition lives on.
Highly patterned and closel-worked felt floor covers are still produced for daily use in houses and flats as well as for use in the traditional yurts.
Kyrgyz 'mosaic' felt rugs, or shyrdak, are made from two sheets of white felt which have been dyed, cut into identical shapes and reassembled into a mosaic-like textile of interlocking positive and negative patterns. Couching threads in a contrasting colour highlight the overall design, and cover and strengthen the joins between felt sections. Quilting is also used to add a relief effect to the pattern, and to strengthen the carpet by attaching it to a naturally-coloured backing felt. The border edge is often covered by braidwork.
In 1993, Paul Philpott set up the first Save the Children Fund aid and development programme in Kyrgyzstan, shortly after the fall of communism, and has maintained close links with the country ever since. In collaboration with the local people, he has set up a micro-enterprise importing felt rugs from this region, which are hand made by women's cooperatives. This project supports people in the remote mountain villages of Kyrgyzstan.
Paul travels to the remote villages of the Tien Shan mountains to source these rugs for sale in the UK and can also supply to order. A range of colours, designs and sizes can be obtained. Prices vary according to age, quality and size.
For further information about the rugs and how to purchase them please contact us.
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