Umai Rug

Umai Rug

Umai Rug is an innovative furniture design piece that exemplifies the preservation of ancient nomadic craftsmanship while serving contemporary interior needs. Created by Kazakh designer Marina Begman, this masterfully crafted floor covering employs the traditional shyrdak-making technique, which is recognized on UNESCO's List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safekeeping. The design draws profound inspiration from the Turkic and Mongolian mythology, specifically the legend of Umay, the benevolent goddess who protects women and children. The rug's distinctive aesthetic features natural wool gradients complemented by yellowish tones achieved through onion shell dyeing, with an emblematic golden thread running throughout the design to symbolize the flowing hair of the goddess Umay. Measuring 3000 x 2000 x 15 millimeters, this hand-crafted masterpiece requires wool from six sheep and demands exceptional skill, with experienced artisans spending approximately three days to hand-stitch each square meter. The production process involves traditional methods of spring sheep shearing, followed by washing, drying, coloring, and precise sheet pressing, culminating in intricate pattern cutting and hand stitching onto a wool base. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the rug serves multiple functional purposes, including acoustic enhancement, temperature regulation, and natural antibacterial properties. This remarkable piece, which garnered the Silver A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category, represents a harmonious fusion of cultural preservation, sustainable craftsmanship, and contemporary design sensibilities.

traditional craftsmanship, nomadic design, sustainable furniture, cultural heritage, wool artistry, interior decoration

— Adam Dawson

CITATION : "Adam Dawson. 'Umai Rug.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/umai-rug?E=455701 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"