National Symbols in Traditional Textiles
Session
Integrated Design
Description
National symbols constitute an inseparable part of the spiritual and material heritage of the Albanian people. They are not merely decorative ornaments encountered in weaving and clothing, but carriers of historical, cultural, and spiritual meanings. Regardless of the circumstances and the manner of their presentation, they reflect the thought and emotions of those who expressed them through their work. On the other hand, by employing national symbols in folk art, the identity of the respective community was both disseminated and preserved. Among the symbols that found wide use in weaving and clothing, the most prominent are the double-headed eagle, the six- and eight-pointed star, and the goat horns, although other motifs appear as well. In this study, however, we will focus on these three symbols, which find powerful expression in weaving, in the ornamentation of folk costumes, and in objects of daily use. In fact, all three are closely related to the national hero Gjergj Kastrioti – Skanderbeg. The double-headed eagle in clothing and textiles is preserved as an ancient symbol of freedom, pride, and unity. Over time, it acquired a special place in folk ornamentation. It appears in ceremonial garments throughout the Albanian lands, sometimes more prominently, sometimes less. In many cases, in order to avoid restrictive circumstances, it was often stylized artistically while preserving its sentiment and emotional charge. Thus, in many woven pieces such as carpets, prayer rugs, and cushions, the eagle appears in various artistic forms, carrying not only decorative function but also a patriotic message. Through these symbols, the Albanian folk artist preserved a strong bond with the symbolism of freedom even during times of occupation. Through clothing, the eagle conveyed the message of pride and national belonging, becoming an identifying element of Albanians wherever they lived. What mattered was not the precise form or location of its appearance, but the fact that the symbol was maintained and disseminated in every household.
Proceedings Editor
Edmond Hajrizi
ISBN
978-9951-982-41-2
Location
UBT Lipjan, Kosovo
Start Date
25-10-2025 9:00 AM
End Date
26-10-2025 6:00 PM
DOI
10.33107/ubt-ic.2025.208
Recommended Citation
Cocaj, Nexhat, "National Symbols in Traditional Textiles" (2025). UBT International Conference. 21.
https://knowledgecenter.ubt-uni.net/conference/2025UBTIC/ID/21
National Symbols in Traditional Textiles
UBT Lipjan, Kosovo
National symbols constitute an inseparable part of the spiritual and material heritage of the Albanian people. They are not merely decorative ornaments encountered in weaving and clothing, but carriers of historical, cultural, and spiritual meanings. Regardless of the circumstances and the manner of their presentation, they reflect the thought and emotions of those who expressed them through their work. On the other hand, by employing national symbols in folk art, the identity of the respective community was both disseminated and preserved. Among the symbols that found wide use in weaving and clothing, the most prominent are the double-headed eagle, the six- and eight-pointed star, and the goat horns, although other motifs appear as well. In this study, however, we will focus on these three symbols, which find powerful expression in weaving, in the ornamentation of folk costumes, and in objects of daily use. In fact, all three are closely related to the national hero Gjergj Kastrioti – Skanderbeg. The double-headed eagle in clothing and textiles is preserved as an ancient symbol of freedom, pride, and unity. Over time, it acquired a special place in folk ornamentation. It appears in ceremonial garments throughout the Albanian lands, sometimes more prominently, sometimes less. In many cases, in order to avoid restrictive circumstances, it was often stylized artistically while preserving its sentiment and emotional charge. Thus, in many woven pieces such as carpets, prayer rugs, and cushions, the eagle appears in various artistic forms, carrying not only decorative function but also a patriotic message. Through these symbols, the Albanian folk artist preserved a strong bond with the symbolism of freedom even during times of occupation. Through clothing, the eagle conveyed the message of pride and national belonging, becoming an identifying element of Albanians wherever they lived. What mattered was not the precise form or location of its appearance, but the fact that the symbol was maintained and disseminated in every household.