The curled stem is one of the most widespread ornaments in Kazakh art, with various graphic variations. It is found in embroidered carpet compositions as well as on tombstones. Leaves, buds and flowers may spring from the stem, symbolising the eternal movement, life and infinity of the universe.
The ornament of the curled stem is often found in world art: in Celtic and Byzantine art, etc. In ancient Roman art there are motifs of a curled stem. In ancient Roman art there are motifs of the bent stem with birds pecking grapes or with motifs reminiscent of a swastika. This motif is also popular in Gothic art. Sometimes the image of ivy, vines and other climbing plants was also embodied. For example, ivy is an attribute of the resurrected gods (Osiris, Dionysus, etc.), embodies loyalty, progeny, etc.
Another type of ornament is the “örken” (stem). The same name is given to the Kazakh carpet, which received it thanks to this ornament, the main semantic and stylistic element. It represents a sprout, symbolising offspring, the beginning of a new life or the creation of a new family. The ornament orken, in the form of 3-4 large medallions in the central field of the carpet, symbolises offspring and the increase of wealth.
In general, the spregs / whirling stem expresses the ideas of movement, the eternal cycles of birth and death.
