Antique Shirvan/Caucasian Rug /Runner, 3'8" X 7'2"

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This outstanding antique Caucasian Shirvan rug is an exceptional late-19th-century tribal weaving, admired for its refined craftsmanship, brilliant vegetable-dyed colors, … Read more This outstanding antique Caucasian Shirvan rug is an exceptional late-19th-century tribal weaving, admired for its refined craftsmanship, brilliant vegetable-dyed colors, and striking geometric composition. Woven in the Shirvan region around 1880 or earlier, it exemplifies the artistic precision and fine weaving that distinguish the best Caucasian village rugs.

The field is composed of a rhythmic lattice of Lesghi Star medallions arranged in alternating colors of deep indigo, ivory, pale sky blue, celadon green, and soft golden yellow. Each medallion encloses a finely drawn hooked star motif, creating a lively yet perfectly balanced geometric composition. The precision of the drawing and the unusually fine weave indicate a highly skilled workshop or village weaving.

The multiple borders are equally impressive. The principal ivory border displays bold angular latch-hook motifs, while the outer soft aqua border is decorated with colorful eight-pointed stars and geometric ornaments that beautifully frame the central design. The rich palette of indigo blue, madder red, ivory, turquoise, sage green, and golden yellow has mellowed beautifully over nearly a century and a half, retaining the brilliance and harmony that make early Shirvan rugs so highly desirable.

The rug's fine wool, crisp knotting, and excellent preservation make it both a superb decorative furnishing and a highly collectible example of Eastern Caucasian tribal weaving. Its elegant proportions allow it to function equally well as a hallway rug, gallery piece, or wall display. See less