Dragon

These earrings draw inspiration from the motifs found in historical Azerbaijani rugs known as “Ajdahaly” or “Khatai.” Predominantly woven in Karabagh—and possibly in Shirvan and Kuba—between the 16th and 18th centuries, these rugs showcase the enduring dragon motif, with textile fragments surviving from the Ilkhanid Period (13th-14th centuries).

In ancient Turkic mythology, the dragon, referred to as “Büke” or “Evren,” symbolizes power and strength. It is believed that dragons still inhabit the mountains of Tian Shan/Tengri Tagh and Altay, particularly in the mountainous regions of Central Asia. Historical records even mention the “Dragon City” of the ancient Huns. Many Safavid Period carpets, both pile and flatwoven, also feature this enduring motif.

The dragon motif is deeply embedded in the mythological framework of the Azerbaijani people, embellishing the oldest carpet patterns woven in Karabakh, Gazakh, and Nakhchivan. It was also prominently featured in the art of the Safavid period.