Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilim

Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilim is a handcrafted textile produced in Beytüşşebap and its surrounding areas in Şırnak using wool yarn. The weaving process involves interlacing warp and weft threads in a specific pattern. The tradition of kilim weaving has been sustained by the local population for generations, and its motifs are closely linked to the region’s way of life and cultural values.

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The primary material used in the production of Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilim is pure wool yarn. Natural root dyes are employed to achieve the colors of the threads. Brown tones are obtained from the raye tırşık plant, red tones from the rın root, black and brown tones from walnut husks, green tones from the giyarenk root, and yellow tones from sanman and onion skins.

Additional substances such as fermentation agents and auxiliaries are also used to develop the colors. For red, sumac is used; for other colors, “lep”; for black, ash; and for black and yellow tones, salt. These natural substances are integral to the dyeing process. Dyeing with root pigments ensures that the yarns acquire durable and natural hues.

The selection of materials and dyeing methods is strictly tied to the geographical boundaries of the region, with all colors and yarns sourced from local natural resources. These practices preserve the kilim’s authentic and traditional character.

Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilim is woven on vertical looms. During the Weaving process, warp threads are stretched in a precise arrangement, and weft threads are passed over and under them to create motifs. The primary weaving techniques used in these kilims include plain weave, zilli, cicim, and sumak.

Plain weave produces fabrics with identical surfaces on both sides by completely covering the warp threads with weft threads. The zilli technique involves layering multiple types of threads alternately above and below the warp at regular intervals. In the cicim technique, pattern threads are passed over the warp threads, skipping a specific number, then compressed with the weft thread. The sumak technique enhances patterns by wrapping colored pattern threads around the warp threads.

The kilim is tightly woven with small and fine motifs, allowing for the creation of geometric, figurative, or abstract designs. Auxiliary tools used during weaving include the kirkit, scissors, warp board, varangelen, and teşi.

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Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilim features motifs that reflect the cultural life and natural environment of the region. Animal, plant, and floral figures are combined with abstract geometric patterns. Each motif carries specific symbolism: for example, the “kurt ayağı” and “akrep” motifs represent fear and jealousy, the “muhabbet kuşu” symbolizes love and conversation, and the “koç boynuzu” stands for masculinity and bravery.

Plant and floral motifs are associated with fertility, productivity, and happiness. The “el belinde” motif is a symbol of fertility, while the “hayat ağacı” represents immortality. Major motifs found in the kilim include Çılgül, Lüleper, Gülsariye, Gulhezar, Şamari, Kesneker, Lüle, Gula Gulharuk, Urisi, Jirkan, Şağbaran, Serhevştivik, Şimgubik, Canbezar, and Bekik.

Other motifs are diversified through various figurative and abstract designs: Sine (in the Fas style), Kupale Çıldar, Sıtayık, Yarıyuk, Pepke Guri, Sıtini Reş, Şımga Buké, Belitanık, Heçık, Kırıkçık, Sölik, Steyre, Şehık, Lakıp, Gamezık, and Kerbahar motifs form a structured composition on the kilim surface. These motifs preserve the traditional texture and unique identity of the region.

Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilim is used for home decoration, floor coverings, and prayer rugs. The size and density of the weaving are designed to suit different spaces and purposes. The products are valued for individual use and display. Kilims are also used as gifts and traditional dowry items.

Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilim is woven on vertical looms, and the production area must be well-lit, ventilated, and have a flat floor. Kilims are tightly woven with fine and small motifs. Traditionally, their average dimensions are approximately 1.3 × 2 meters, with a weight of about 1.7 kilograms per square meter.

Kilims are made in rectangular shapes; the average width is 150 cm, the length is 350 cm, and the fringe length is approximately 6 cm. Approximately seven knots are used per centimeter in the weaving. The color scheme employs deep red, navy blue, brown, black, and white as primary colors, with green, yellow, and blue as secondary colors. These dimensions and weaving characteristics ensure the preservation of the kilim’s traditional character.

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Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilim constitutes an essential part of the region’s cultural heritage and helps sustain local traditions. The motifs and patterns reflect the community’s religious beliefs, daily life, and relationship with nature. Kilim production contributes significantly to the local economy by providing income for women through their manual labor.

The processes of production, sales, and promotion influence the regional economy and social structure. Kilims are valued as dowry items and gifts during local social and cultural events. They are also sold in local and international markets.

To preserve their color and texture, Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilims are stored rolled up. They must be kept away from direct sunlight and protected from moisture and humidity. This method ensures the longevity of the wool yarns dyed with natural root pigments and prevents the deterioration of the woven patterns. During storage, flat and well-ventilated areas are preferred to maintain the kilim’s shape.

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The production of Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilim is monitored under the coordination of the Beytüşşebap District Governor’s Office. The monitoring team consists of experts from the District Governor’s Office, District National Education Directorate, Public Education Directorate, and District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry. Inspections are conducted at least once annually, and additional checks may be carried out as needed or in response to complaints.

During inspections, the appropriateness of materials, compliance with production methods, and correct use of the geographical indication emblem are verified. The monitoring authority may seek expert support or procure services from public or private institutions when necessary. This mechanism ensures the maintenance of production standards and the kilim’s connection to its geographical origin.

The tradition of Beytüşşebap Jirki Kilim is maintained by women in the region. Production is carried out through training and course programs offered at the Beytüşşebap Multi-Purpose Community Center (ÇATOM), affiliated with the Southeastern Anatolia Project Regional Development Administration. Kilim weaving courses teach local motifs and the use of root dyes.

The woven kilims are distributed domestically and internationally through local sales points and social media. This process contributes to the regional economy and supports the continuation of the region’s cultural values.