Antique 19th Century Karabagh Runner Rug – Caucasus, Circa 1880

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This exquisite 19th-century Karabagh runner rug embodies the rich textile heritage of the Caucasus region with striking complexity and charm. … Read more This exquisite 19th-century Karabagh runner rug embodies the rich textile heritage of the Caucasus region with striking complexity and charm. Woven circa 1880, the rug showcases the distinct Karabagh aesthetic—an artistic fusion of Persian-influenced floral motifs with bold geometric forms native to the region.

The field of the rug is set against a deep, saturated brown-black ground, dramatically enlivened by an array of medallion-like floral rosettes and stylized tribal emblems rendered in a spirited palette of crimson, ivory, sapphire, ochre, and coral. Interspersed throughout the design are quirky, folk-art-inspired animals and charming geometric glyphs—each one imbued with symbolic meaning and regional storytelling tradition.

What sets this piece apart is its wide, multiband border. The main border features a rhythmic vine scroll populated by stylized foliage motifs, framed by narrower guard borders filled with alternating cross-shaped flowers and palmettes, adding a structured contrast to the more organic composition of the field. The exceptional craftsmanship is evident in the tight weave and richly dyed, high-quality wool, producing a dense yet flexible textile.

Expertly curated by Doris Leslie Blau, this rare rug is a testament to centuries of weaving artistry. Doris Leslie Blau offers a broad and varied pricing spectrum, accommodating collectors and designers across a range of budgets—from modest vintage finds to rare, museum-worthy masterpieces. See less