Carpet with Hexagonal Compartments, Turkey, Ottoman period (1281–1924), early 19th century. Wool, 181 x 126.4 cm. Saint Louis Art Museum, Gift of James F. Ballard, 89:1929.

The incredibly thick and lustrous wool pile of this rug is typical of Yürük products. Yürük, the Turkish word for "wanderer," has been used to identify the nomadic people of Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). Yürük rugs made from local wools are very lightweight for their size. Given the sheen and difference in color saturation when viewed from opposite ends, this rug almost appears to be silk. The design is reminiscent of octagonal ceramic tiles, with interlocking octagonal medallions separated by a twisted-ribbon band in light blue. Connected to this band are rectangular boxes containing smaller hexagonal compartments filled with highly stylized insect forms that may have developed from a floral motif of projecting leaves. Geometric shapes, some with legs, and amulet shapes fill the larger octagonal spaces between the boxes.