SOUTH EAST ANATOLIA

GAZIANTEP

Situated en the south eastern part of Turkey, near the Syrian Border, Gaziantep was once the home of very fine kilims. Although Gaziantep doesn't produce a great number of kilims today, old Anteps still appear on the market. Woven in the slit weave technique, Gaziantep kilims feature diamond designs (central diamond flanked by two smaller ones). and six pointed stars. Gaziantep kilims have horizontal bands with various colors. The ying yang design (symbolizing the harmony), scorpion and eli bilende designs appear on the Gaziantep kilims. These very elaborate patterns are often highlighted with a white cotton for special effect.