What
is a prayer rug?
Prayer
rugs are easily distinguished by their asymmetrical design
featuring the mihrab or prayer niche. The form of the
niche is an arch sometimes supported on columns. The mihrab
is not viewed as an architectural component of the niche
but viewed as a doorway to paradise. A lantern can be
found at times hanging from the niche to represent the
holy light or a tree of life design growing up through
the center field. Other symbols depicted are vases, ewers,
carnations, hyacinths and tulips.
