Shirvan rug (252)

Shirvan prayer rug from eastern Caucasus,west coast of the Caspian Sea

Age: circa 1880

Dimensions: 5′.2"x3′.1" (157×94 cm)

The ivory field is diagonally patterned with rows of hooked diamonds in red,navy,medium blue and mustard.There are tiny cloudbands scattered about.The pattern continues through the spandrels.The faceted prayer arch contains a red pentagon enclosing an ivory medallion with a stylized palmette.The red main border is decorated with diagonal leaves and stylized flowers.The inner and outer minor guards display colorful rosettes.There are three guard stripes in quincunx design.The overall effect closely resembles kazak rugs from farther west.All the colors are from natural sources including the camel color.The condition is very good.The rug is very similar to number 105.