Antique Shikli Rug

Period: Late 19th Century
Origin: Caucasus
Dimensions: 137 x 225 cm

This rare late 19th century Shikli rug highlights a powerful and rhythmic composition featuring a magnificent central diamond medallion surrounded by stylized boteh motifs and avian figures. This structural balance between the prominent deep indigo blue field complete with its structured rows of botanical elements, surrounding multi-element figurative borders, and precise craftsmanship reflects the pinnacle of traditional Caucasus fine craftsmanship world-renowned for its bold iconography, decorative clarity, and majestic graphic presence. Textiles of this antiquity are celebrated for their ability to blend highly expressive tribal design narratives with a striking, geometric abstraction.

The color palette is masterfully balanced featuring a primary deep blue canvas that allows the vibrant touches of saturated madder red, soft orange, ivory, and dark contrasting details to step forward dynamically. These rich and enduring tones achieved through the expert application of natural vegetable dyes over 130 years ago exhibit a characteristic gentle patina, soft historic abrash, and an organic textile texture that are hallmarks of the finest late 19th century Caucasian regional productions. The multi-layered framing borders featuring characteristic polychrome geometric and bird-form bands create a powerful visual boundary that highlights the superior wool quality and distinctive technical finesse of the weaver.

Structural analysis indicates the use of premium hand-spun wool with a characteristically resilient, tight knotting structure and a supple yet firm handle tailored for refined aesthetic spaces. The exceptional clarity of the intricate geometric outlines, specifically the perfectly balanced symmetry of the central medallion layout and corresponding tribal borders, definitively distinguishes this antique masterpiece as an authentic late 19th century Shikli production. Ultimately, this decorative textile stands as a premier example of classical Caucasian art representing a peak in both technical endurance and graphic majesty for global collectors.

Stock No: 1310

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