Antique Yarkand Silk Saph, eighteenth century This spectacular antique Saph or multiple-niche prayer rug is a masterpiece of East Turkestan weaving. Woven with all silk pile, it is luxurious yet elegantly reserved in its design of lobed niches surrounded by a simple vinescroll border system. The spandrels above each niche are different in design and color. The field of the niches in soft green, the color of the Prophet, is used here not only because it is a precious, difficult color to produce, but also as an expression of piety. While this rug has clear signs of wear, it is acceptable given its great age. Indeed, it bears the marks of its long experience like a venerable wise man or warrior.