19th Century Turkish Oya with Gemstones.

This traditional silk crochet lacework dates back thousands of years and is believed to have developed from early fisherman’s net patterns. The term ‘Oya’ generally means ‘decorative edging’ and was used primarily for finishing scarves, clothing, and linens. With the use of small needles, the artist could create the delicate wild flowers and foliage native to the Anatolian region. These flowers were often symbolic for women representing love, hopes and happiness and played a key role in the cultural identity of Turkey.

35” long