Mesopotamia is an ancient land that has witnessed the birth of civilizations. The first traces of human social and cultural activities, the first steps of civilization, took place in these lands.

One of the most important features that distinguishes Mesopotamia from other regions is its success in preserving and passing on its thousands of years of cultural heritage from generation to generation. These stories were formed centuries before written transmission, and they are the first myths of humanity. Today, the importance of motifs is great in our sharing of these stories, beliefs, and thoughts with our ancestors thousands of years ago. This culture, which is especially transmitted through weaving, is often used in carpet and textile products. As L'Orient Blanc, we try to use the cultural diversity of the East frequently in the pieces we produce.

Here are some of the motifs that you can often find in L'Orient Blanc's designs;

ANTLERS
This motif is a symbol of power and strength, as well as a representation of the nomadic peoples' ancestors' lifestyle and livelihood through animal husbandry. It reflects a person's inner strength, determination, and power. In addition, it is believed that the antler motif, which symbolizes masculinity, productivity, and fertility, brings abundance and happiness to couples in marriages. It is believed that this motif protects a person from evil and negative energy. It has been a popular motif in carpets used in weddings and special occasions, as it is believed to bring luck and fortune.

TULIP
Tulip motifs represent rebirth and resurrection. The tulip, which transforms from a bulb into a flower, symbolizes the revival of nature with the arrival of spring. Therefore, tulip motifs represent hope, renewal, and change.

THE EYE
The eye motif is used throughout the Middle East for protection from evil energy and to bring luck. The eye symbolizes protection from the evil eye and wards off negative energy. Therefore, eye motifs are considered a protective symbol and are used in homes and other spaces. The eye motif also symbolizes holiness and good intentions. The eye is seen as the watchful eye of God and refers to goodness, honesty, and justice. Eye motifs that are used reflect these sacred qualities and carry a spiritual meaning.

HANDS ON HIPS
This motif signifies strength and power through the hands placed on the figure's hips. Simultaneously, the posture and expression of the figure reflect values of courage and heroism. Additionally, this motif symbolizes independence and freedom. In the nomadic culture of Central Asia, the ability to stand on one's own feet represents independence and freedom. Artworks featuring the hands on the hips motif are considered an expression that represents these values, emphasizing the significance of possessing these qualities in daily life.

FEMININE & MASCULINE MOTIFS
Feminine Motifs: Feminine motifs are often represented with delicate, graceful, and curved lines. These motifs feature the figure of a woman and feminine characteristics. For example, details such as hair, skirts, dresses, and decorations are emphasized in feminine motifs. These motifs symbolize feminine beauty, grace, motherhood, and fertility.
Masculine Motifs: Masculine motifs have bolder and sharper lines. These motifs feature the figure of a man and masculine characteristics. For example, details such as a beard, mustache, hat, or helmet are emphasized in masculine motifs. These motifs symbolize masculinity, strength, courage, and protection.

Feminine and masculine motifs are important symbols in nomadic culture. They represent not only gender, but also social roles, family and home life, fertility, and gender relations. These motifs are used in carpets, contributing to the preservation and transmission of cultural heritage. Additionally, they have the potential to add aesthetic appeal and meaning to the pieces produced.