Title:

Shirvan Prayer Rug

Eastern Caucasus

Size:

36“ x 66”

Circa:
1880
Cat. #:
345
Description:

The weaver utilized simple, well established design elements found throughout the eastern Caucasus.

The result, however, is an outstanding example of 19th century woven art.

This is achieved by combining the skill of an experienced weaver, the imaginative and thoughtful arranging of design motifs and the effective use of clear, rich and varied colors.

There are, in addition, several features suggesting that this rug had a special significant for the weaver and perhaps her family.

The main border display is the so-called ‘leaf and calyx’ or meandering vine and leaf design.

There are, however, selected and limited places where undyed camel wool rather than the more common dyed lamb’s wool is used.

The secondary border stripes have two styles of sectioned flower buds and the quincunx formulation (dots in 2-1-2).

Across the field, diamond shapes with sectioned diamond forms within and protruding animal or bird heads are arranged on a diagonal.

Around the prayer arch, the directionality changes and these motifs are displayed on a vertical axis.

Limited but effective use of secondary motifs adds variety without creating design clutter. 

The visual impact of the ivory field is made more dramatic by the darker colors immediately surrounding the field.

An ivory ground is then use on the outer edges of the rug to unify the entire work.

Condition: The rug is in nearly perfect condition.  The pile is full.  There is no wear, damage or wear creases.

Structure:
Warps:

Wool, natural shades of dark and mid-brown with no displacement.

 
Wefts:

Wool, natural brown

 
Knots:

Symmetrical

 
Sides:

Foundation warps are bundled into two cords and wrapped in light brown wool portions of which are not original.

 
Ends:

Most of plain weave ends are lost with small portions of the original intact and in good condition.

 
Handle:

The handle is moderately firm.

Price:
$8,500