Tsutruk

This early 20th-century hand-knotted ‘Tsutruk’ rug beautifully reflects the rich visual language and tactile artistry of traditional Tibetan weaving. Once used as a seating carpet—placed on raised platforms (kangs) or directly on the floor—it combines functional purpose with profound cultural symbolism.
Woven from the lustrous, silky wool of the Tibetan Plateau, the rug was most likely crafted in a remote region, outdoors during clement weather, using a backstrap loom. It consists of three narrow panels, each knotted separately and later sewn together—a common practice in traditional Tibetan rug-making.
The central field is composed of deep brown-indigo-black  tones, creating a dramatic visual contrast with the vibrant, symmetrically arranged motifs that run through the middle. Dominating this central axis are bold, geometric cross-like figures—ancient Tibetan symbols representing the four cardinal directions and the centre, a powerful expression of cosmic harmony and spiritual protection. These motifs may also reference the vajra, the indestructible thunderbolt emblem in Tibetan Buddhism, symbolizing strength and clarity of mind.
A notable detail is the red border, which is not made from a woven textile band—as is often the case—but is instead fully knotted. This choice may reflect the weaver’s resourcefulness in the face of limited access to supplementary materials, offering a subtle glimpse into the practical realities of life in remote Himalayan regions.

Condition; very good considered the age and no major repairs
Date: first half of the 20th century
Warp: Hand spun wool
Weft: Hand spun wool
Colour: brown-indigo-black/red crimson/light green/orange/pink/warm orange
Dimension: 80cm × 146cm (31.5in × 57.5in)