Antique Lezgi Shirvan Runner

Period: Late 19th Century
Origin: Caucasus
Dimensions: 117 x 300 cm

This rare late 19th century Caucasian Shirvan Lezgi runner highlights a powerful and rhythmic geometric composition featuring a vertical arrangement of five iconic “Lesghi star” medallions anchored within a deep midnight indigo field. This structural balance between the precisely repeating star polygons—rendered in alternating ivory madder red and forest green—and the expansive elongated ground reflects the pinnacle of the Shirvan weaving tradition in the Eastern Caucasus. Rugs of this era are world renowned for their extraordinary clarity of design and the use of complex tribal emblems that represent an archaic artistic language preserved by rural Dagestan influenced weaving groups.

The color palette is masterfully balanced featuring a primary midnight indigo field that serves as a dramatic canvas for high contrast shifts of madder red sky blue golden yellow and ivory. These rich and enduring tones achieved through the expert application of natural dyes over 130 years ago exhibit a chromatic strength and a saturated depth that are hallmarks of the finest late 19th century regional productions. The inclusion of a complex multi layered border system anchored by a primary ivory ground “leaf and calyx” border creates a precise visual frame that highlights the superior wool quality and the technical finesse of the weavers.

Structural analysis indicates the use of premium hand spun local wool with a characteristically fine clipped pile and a firm resilient handle. The exceptional clarity of the geometric outlines specifically the sharply rendered serrated edges of the star motifs and the precisely executed geometric guard borders definitively distinguishes this antique masterpiece as an authentic late 19th century Shirvan Lezgi. Ultimately this rug stands as a premier example of Caucasian textile art representing a peak in both technical endurance and graphic majesty for global collectors.

Stock No: 3031

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