1970s Azerbaijani Kazak-Style Rug

Details

Description

This hand-knotted Azerbaijani rug produced under the Azerkhalcha cooperative weaving system during the late Soviet period. Executed in a Kazak/Karabakh … Read more This hand-knotted Azerbaijani rug produced under the Azerkhalcha cooperative weaving system during the late Soviet period. Executed in a Kazak/Karabakh geometric style, the rug features a large stepped medallion composition, powerful ram’s-horn motifs, and a traditional Caucasian palette of madder red, indigo, pale green, and ivory. The clarity of design and balanced structure are characteristic of mid–late 20th century workshop production.

Date: Circa 1970–1985
Dimensions: 48 × 71 in (approx. 122 × 180 cm)
Foundation: Wool warp and weft
Pile: Wool
Knot Type: Symmetrical (Turkish/Ghiordes)
Knot Density: Approx. 80–100 KPSI
Dyes: Mixed palette of natural and mid-century synthetic dyes
Color Palette: Madder red, indigo, pale green, ivory, yellow-ochre

This rug presents a classic Kazak/Karabakh-influenced medallion layout:
• A dominant stepped central medallion framed by geometric extensions
• Ram’s-horn motifs symbolizing strength and protection
• Hooked leaf and “tree-of-life” branch elements
• A narrow inner border of reciprocating latch-hooks
• A main border of alternating angular rosettes and arrow-shaped devices

The crisp geometry, controlled spacing, and confident execution indicate accomplished cooperative workshop production rather than rustic village weaving. The pale green field areas and golden accents are typical of late Soviet Caucasian regional color schemes.

During the 1970s–1980s, the Azerkhalcha system oversaw weaving centers that recreated the classic 19th-century Kazak and Karabakh patterns with consistent knotting and standardized formats. Rugs of this era are valued today for their authenticity of design, durable wool, and decorative versatility. Well-preserved examples such as this have begun appreciating due to increased interest in Soviet-period Caucasian textiles.

This Kazak-style Azerkhalcha rug is a well-preserved example of late Soviet Caucasian weaving, distinguished by its bold medallion structure, vibrant palette, and fine condition. Its strong graphic presence, symbolic motifs, and workshop consistency make it both a desirable collectible textile and an excellent decorative furnishing. See less