| Description |
This rug in the runner format was woven in the Chahar Mahal village of Ghafarrukh. Ghafarrukh is well known for both the quality and volume of its production. Organic, non-synthetic dyes were used well into the 1950's. The design of this rug is a classic one and clearly identifies it as having been woven in Ghafarrukh. The primary field design consists of repeating 'cross medallions'. On occasion, these crosses are enclosed in a diamond, as seen here. Frequently, they are not enclosed. The border ground is always ivory in color with sectioned flower heads connected with a meandering vine. The secondary motifs in the field are essentially floral and are rendered in a geometric fashion. Connecting the 'cross diamonds' are enclosures containing what appear to be cypress trees. The skillful use of a wide color palette enlivens what could have been a rather somber tonality. There are wonderful shades of blue, reddish-brown, light green and golden yellow.
Condition:
Excellent. The pile is full, thick and meaty. There are no areas of damage or wear to the field and borders. The bottom end is reduced slightly and has been stabilized. |
| Structure |
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Warps: |
Wool, shades of undyed brown and some ivory are plied (Z2S). The warps are slightly depressed and firmly packed. |
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Wefts: |
Wool, varying shades of brown (Z2S). One shoot. |
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Knots: |
Symmetrical |
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Sides: |
Multiple foundation warps are bundled and overcast with undyed brown wool and animal hair. Portions of the warp is original, most has been re-wrapped. |
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Ends: |
The original end treatment at the bottom has been lost. The bottom has, however, been stabilized with minimal loss of pile. The top end treatment is original and in a good state of preservation. This consists of weft-faced plain weave with a single decorative strip of extra weft wrapping in a reddish-brown and light green. |
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