1870s, Antique Caucasian Wool Rug, Six Geometric Medallions, c.1870s, 3.17 × 4.08 Ft

Details

Description

This antique hand-knotted wool rug features six bold octagonal medallions arranged in two columns. Its compact composition combines hooked geometric … Read more This antique hand-knotted wool rug features six bold octagonal medallions arranged in two columns. Its compact composition combines hooked geometric forms, star-like centres and a lively sequence of border ornaments.

The rug measures approximately 96.5 × 124.5 cm. A Caucasian attribution and circa-1870s date place its design within a nineteenth-century context, although its exact workshop and production date remain unconfirmed.

Six Individual Medallions
Each medallion combines a stepped outer outline with angular interior forms. Brick red, denim blue, ivory and pale yellow alternate between the compartments, creating variety within a clearly ordered arrangement.

Some centres take the form of pointed stars, while others contain smaller squared or hooked motifs. Their differences give each compartment an individual character rather than an identical repeated appearance.

Small triangular colour blocks occupy the spaces between the larger shapes. Fine ivory details separate the medallions and add definition against the dark brown ground.

Geometric Borders
The surrounding border includes small hooked forms, outlined squares, diamonds and other angular ornaments. These motifs vary in scale and spacing, giving the frame a lively rhythm.

Deep navy and blue border sections contrast with the warmer red and yellow details. Narrow outer bands complete the design, although wear has interrupted parts of their drawing.

The overall outline is irregular, with gently bowed sides and uneven ends. These visible characteristics form an important part of the rug’s present appearance.

Colour and Timeworn Texture
The remaining wool retains clear contrasts between warm brick red, softer blue and pale yellow. Ivory motifs bring light to the darker areas and make the hooked drawing particularly legible.

Extensive wear has reduced the pile across much of the surface. In several places, the underlying weave is exposed, interrupting both the darker ground and coloured motifs.

This is a strongly timeworn textile, not a rug with a uniformly plush surface. Its appeal rests in the graphic composition, surviving colour and visible structure.

Condition
Substantial age-related wear, with low and uneven pile and exposed foundation across several areas. The ends are frayed, with short thread remnants and losses to the original finishing.

Side bindings are worn, and loose cords or threads are visible near the edges. The outline is irregular, with localised distortion and unevenness.

Decorative display is preferable to regular floor use. Any proposed low-traffic placement should first consider the textile’s structural condition and need for support.

Key Details
Object: Antique geometric wool rug
Period: Circa 1870s
Regional attribution: Caucasian
Material: Wool
Technique: Handmade, hand-knotted
Dimensions: Approximately 96.5 × 124.5 cm; 3.17 × 4.08 ft
Design: Six hooked octagonal medallions with geometric borders
Colours: Brick red, blue, ivory, pale yellow, dark brown and deep navy
Condition: Substantial wear, low pile, exposed foundation, frayed ends, worn bindings and irregular outline
SKU: 1B1017

Why It’s Special
The six contrasting medallions give this small textile a strong graphic presence. Its varied hooked forms and individual border ornaments reward close inspection despite the extensive wear.

One Royal Art
At One Royal Art, we curate distinctive handmade rugs, celebrating their individual character and clearly describing their condition. See less