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The geometric representations of animals found on Qashqai carpets hold a fascinating symbolism that can be tied to the concepts of observation, simplification, and the representation of diversity in human society. The Qashqai weavers, living in their nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyle, were deeply connected to the natural world around them. They observed a wide range of creatures in their environment, from the majestic to the mundane. Through their artistic expression on carpets, these weavers captured the essence of these creatures using geometric shapes and patterns. By simplifying complex forms into geometric designs, they created a visual language that communicated both the recognizable forms of animals and their own artistic interpretation.
The act of observing the world around us and distilling its complexity into simpler forms is a fundamental human tendency. This process allows us to make sense of the world, communicate ideas more efficiently, and express our perceptions artistically. Just as the Qashqai weavers simplified animals into geometric motifs, we engage in similar cognitive processes when we observe and interpret our surroundings. A field of these animals, each bound to the same stylistic framework but unique in their expression, beautifully mirrors the diverse array of humanity that we encounter today. When we look out our windows, we witness a world inhabited by people of varying backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and experiences. Just as the Qashqai weavers encountered a diverse array of creatures in their environment, we encounter a diverse array of people in our daily lives.
The uniform style of these animals on the carpets can be seen as a unifying thread, representing the common thread of humanity that binds us all together. At the same time, the uniqueness of each animal symbolizes the individuality and distinctiveness of every person. This concept resonates with the multicultural and diverse societies we live in, where people share common aspirations and qualities, yet each person brings their own unique perspective and story to the tapestry of human experience. In this way, Qashqai carpets and the geometric animal representations they feature become not only exquisite works of art but also meaningful symbols that reflect the intricate interplay between observation, simplification, diversity, and unity in our world.