AN OVERVIEW OF WOOLEN CARPETS IN THE TARIM BASIN

Abstract

The Tarim Basin in East Turkestan has been one of the destinations where Western countries organized the most expeditions from the second half of the 19th century to the first quarter of the 20th century. Previously largely unknown to the rest of the world, the Tarim Basin became famous for the ruins, ancient manuscripts, and mummies found there by archaeologists and scientists.

Important remains were unearthed in the Niya Ruins and the Bronze Age Ruins of Kroran: woolen textiles samples such as carpets, rugs, and felt caps. These discoveries resonated all over the world. Relying on information about those finds, which were brought to Europe by Western explorers and are now preserved in museums in Sweden and England, this study will explore weaving techniques and dyeing features, as well as the socio-cultural and economical role of wool weaving techniques throughout history.

Based on the aforementioned archaeological discoveries, it has been possible to examine the ethnic origin of the Uyghur people living in the Eastern Turkestan region since ancient times. It has been proven that the Uyghurs are indigenous people who have a deep-rooted civilization with unique characteristics, rather than an included part of other cultures. Analyzing the wool weaving techniques in the area plays a significant role in understanding the ethnocultural history of Central Asia.