Turkmen Horse Cover with Tassel Fringe

Woven in the late 19th century, this colorful Turkmen textile was originally used by a nomadic traveler as an artful covering for his horse. Placed between the saddle and the horse, the blanket cushioned the rigid saddle, protected from harsh winds, and kept the horse warm in cold climates.

The woven saddle carpet is decorated with hand-knotted wool in a pattern of yin yang symbols, representing harmony, and tree of life motifs, representing life, eternity, and a link between the earthly and heavenly realms. Braided along the edges and trimmed with tassels, this once-functional horse cover lives on today as a beautiful decorative tapestry.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.