Antique Shirvan Rug

Period: Late 19th Century
Origin: Caucasus
Dimensions: 120 x 227 cm

This rare late 19th century Caucasian Shirvan rug is a masterpiece of geometric precision, featuring a vertical arrangement of five nested octagonal medallions. Anchored within a complex, multi tiered field of deep indigo and madder red, the composition reflects the absolute pinnacle of the East Caucasian weaving tradition. Rugs of this antiquity are world renowned for their architectural clarity and the use of ancient tribal symbols including stylized animal figures and star motifs that create a powerful sense of cultural identity and rhythmic movement.

The color palette is masterfully balanced, utilizing a rich indigo ground as a dramatic canvas for high contrast shifts of madder red, ivory, and golden saffron. These enduring tones, achieved through the expert application of natural dyes over 130 years ago, exhibit a chromatic strength and saturated depth characteristic of the finest late 19th century Shirvan productions. The inclusion of a wide, multi layered border system featuring a primary ivory ground border decorated with a sequence of serrated leaf and calyx motifs creates a precise visual frame that highlights the superior wool quality and technical finesse of the weavers.

Structural analysis reveals the use of premium hand spun local wool with a characteristically fine clipped, resilient pile and a firm, substantial handle. The exceptional clarity of the angular outlines specifically the minute geometric details within the stepped medallions and the precisely executed “barber pole” guard borders definitively distinguishes this piece as an authentic antique Shirvan. For the global collector, this rug represents a peak in Caucasian textile art, offering a rare combination of technical endurance, graphic majesty, and timeless tribal heritage.

Stock No: 1366

Request Information