THE BASIL – PLANT PATTERN WITH MULTIPLE VALUES AND SIGNIFICANCES

Abstract

The content of the article refers to the options of expression of the plant motifs and especially of the basil as a plant-symbol Phytomorphic motifs give special originality to traditional national fabrics. In the most ancient wall carpets and rugs the phytomorphic motifs are very stylized, almost not identified and among the flowers and motifs represented, we find the rose, leaf, tree of life, fir branch, and others. One of the most common decorative motifs found in the ornamental composition of woolen carpets is the basil, which has been observed in some samples since the18th-19th centuries. Most plant motifs usually fall into the category of free-drawn or non-geometric forms in traditional textiles, although a specific geometry is required in the case of weaving techniques, except in carpets where the fabric is not staggered.

Keywords

• basil
• plant motif
• stylization
• traditional fabrics
• tradition