Kyrgyz Chiy

       Chiy is a mat made of reed or grass which grows on the steppes. Long reeds are harvested, cut and dried. The reeds are very strong and that is why make mat sturdy and lasting for a long time. When they are joined together with wool of various colours they form a mat which is decorated with many patterns. There are several purposes for Chiy. First kind of the Chiy is called "Chyrmagan kanat chiy". It has a lot of decorations, and can be found in a yurt instead of a wall. Another one is called "Ashkana chiy". It is used to separate the kitchen part from the rest of the yurt. It is also used out of doors to protect the fireplace from or to protect wool which is left to dry. And also Chiy is laid under the thick felt carpets to preserve them from dampness. Chiy mats are used  in the process of shyrdaks and ala-kiyiz making.

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