Mughan

This model draws inspiration from the hooked ornaments seen in Mughan carpets, referred to by carpet-makers as “Kohna nakhysh” (old ornament). This ancient pattern dates back thousands of years and extends beyond Azerbaijan, appearing in various Central Asian and Anatolian rugs. Carpet-makers from Ganja and Lankaran assert that this design represents a “damgha” (mark, seal), with its 12 hooks symbolizing 12 years. Much like other Oriental cultures, Turkic peoples, including Azerbaijanis, followed 12-year calendar cycles. In the center of the ‘old ornament,’ one can find either an eight-pointed star, symbolizing completeness or paradise, or a pattern known as “Dordbuynuz” (four horns), believed to represent the four vital elements: earth, water, fire, and air.