Embroidered Turkish Towel (Makrama, Peskir or Yaglik)

Circa 19^th century | Turkey

An antique nineteenth century Turkish embroidered towel or cloth that was used to clean fingers during a meal but also as decorative items or covers (see The Gen). Embroidered floral borders at each end in bright blue and red silk and metallic threads on a linen ground, the ends are finished with metal lace edging. Reversible design.

DIMENSIONS: Length 96 cm, Maximum width 44 cm.

CONDITION: In exceptional original condition given the use of the item. The threads retain their vibrant colour. There are a couple of minor stains which are to be expected.

REFERENCES: The Victoria & Albert Museum has an extensive collection of Turkish napkins. For an example of a similar napkin with metallic lace edging and threads see Victoria & Albert Museum, Accession Number T.191-1957. 

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THE GEN

“Mrs Newberry gave the Guild some fine examples of Turkish towels. This is the term generally used to describe the smaller rectangular or square embroideries worked in coloured silks, often with metal threads, on cream-coloured fabric. They were used as towels and napkins, sashes, headkerchiefs, scarves, handkerchiefs, wrappers for presents and covers. Since they were pretty and colourful they were also used as decorations for rooms at times of celebration such as weddings. Great numbers of these Turkish towels were made to satisfy the requirements of the Ottoman household. Several travellers from England from the early eighteenth century onwards have described the beauty of the hand-towels and napkins offered them when they dined in the women’s quarters of rich families. The custom was for a servant to come round and pour water, which was often lightly perfumed with rose or orange blossom, over the hands of the guests, and offer towels. Napkins would be used when sitting at the round low tables and then, after the meal, the guests left the table to go through the handwashing ceremony again.” (Treasures from the Embroiderers’ Guild Collection, Elizabeth Benn, David & Charles Craft, 1991 p. 72)

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