A horse «Central Asia» with rhombs

The simple white horse body is decorated with bright rhombs. The motive of the painting is inspired by handmade fabrics called «ikat». This traditional pattern with geometric deckle-edged ornament is considered to be a symbol of Central Asia. The ikat threads are dyed before they are woven. They are pulled together in bundles and put in a certain colour. After some interval there goes a new colour followed by another one and so on. As a result not all threads are dyed evenly, and some of them remain white.

In Russia ikat is considered to be the invention of Central Asia, although similar patterns existed in India, Indonesia, the Philippines and pre-Columbian America (Mexico, Brazil and Bolivia). Since ikats are difficult to create, fabrics with this pattern have always been considered a sign of wealth and prestige.

Enchanting revival of the ikat pattern has taken place recently. It is widely used in the collections of great couturiers and interior designers.