ANATOLIAN MOTIFS:
 

Motifs are derived from symbols that were used in ages gone by to inform, communicate and to convey ideas. Over time, some of these signs merged with myths, acquired hidden significance and moved into the world of esoteric symbolism. In this context, their use may not be limited to decorative purposes. Due to the hidden forces they are believed to imply, their primary purpose may well be psychological rather than aesthetic.

Here is a comprehensive list of commonly used motifs. Please click on the links for variations of each motif and their meanings.

MOTIFS RELATED TO BIRTH AND REPRODUCTION

 
 

   • Hands on Hips - Elibelinde

   • Ram's Horn - Kocboynuzu

   • Fertility - Bereket

   • Hair Band - Sacbagi

   • Earrings - Kupe

   • Fetter - Bukagi

   • Chest - Sandikli

   • Love and Unison, Ying-Yang - Ask ve Birleώim

   • Star - Yildiz

Hands on Hips


Ram's Horn


Fertility


Eye


Scorpion

MOTIFS SYMBOLIZING LIFE

 

• Essentials of life

   • Running Water - Su Yolu

 

• Protection of life, land and possessions

   • Burdock - Pitrak

   • Hand, Finger, Comb - El, Parmak, Tarak

   • Amulet, Evil Eye - Muska, Nazarlik

   • Eye - Goz

   • Cross - Hac

   • Hook - Cengel

 

• Protection of life

   • Snake - Yilan

   • Dragon - Ejder

   • Scorpion - Akrep

   • Wolf's Mouth, Wolf's Track, Monster's Feet -     Kurt Agzi, Kurt Izi, Canavar Ayagi

 • Motifs related to immortality and Family

 

• Tree of Life - Hayat Agaci

   • Family Signs - Im

  MOTIFS RELATED TO DEATH 

 

• Bird - Kus