Shirvan runner (515)

Shirvan runner from eastern Caucasus,west coast of the Caspian sea

Age: circa 1890

Size: 9′.8"x3′.9" (295×114 cm)

The navy field displays eleven vibrating,stepped lozenge medallions forming a central pole,each enclosing four radiating palmettes,all in shades of ivory,medium blue and light blue.They are supported by a fill of small animals,hooked lozenges,diamonds,tiny rosettes and other geometric elements.The ivory main border features the iconic crab pattern in red,green,blue,navy,light blue and burgundy.The flanking minor borders in red tones both display colorful rosette chains.There are two guard stripes and four plain blue lines in the border system.At each end is an arrow flatwoven band and a partial knotted warp net at the top end.The side cords form a flat off white finish.The weave is tight and compact.All the colors are from natural sources.The piece is in good condition.