Antique Sumak Bagface

Period: Late 19th Century
Origin: Caucasus
Dimensions: 58 x 58 cm

This rare, late 19th-century Sumak bagface is an extraordinary and highly collectable example of nomadic flat-weave art, showcasing the celebrated technical mastery of the tribal weavers of the Caucasus region. Universally revered for the complex, brocaded Soumak wrapping technique that creates an exceptionally dense and durable ribbed structure, this historic piece originally served as the decorative front face of a utilitarian storage bag or cradle. The central composition features a powerful, deeply saturated terracotta red ground dominated by a massive geometric star medallion enclosed within a complex, interlocking forest green latchhook framework that traditionally symbolizes ancestral protection, fertility, and cosmic order.

The dramatic central field is beautifully balanced by floating multi-colored geometric stars and small tribal amulets that populate the corners of the inner canvas. The layout demonstrates a masterful command over organic vegetable dye recipes, introducing a fascinating secondary rhythm of rich indigo blue, crisp ivory, and soft ochre gold. Framing this sacred layout is an incredibly charming and historic border system, featuring a highly sought-after upper panel decorated with a stylized row of zoomorphic birds, surrounded by a running latchhook main border and delicate geometric guard bands that ground the intense graphic energy of the piece.

Exhibiting a wonderfully authentic aged patina, soft natural abrash variations, and structural qualities that carry a profound historical soul, this antique textile possesses a striking graphic presence that feels brilliantly modern. The upper edge beautifully preserves the original woven loop slits used for threading the closure cord, a rare detail that speaks directly to its utilitarian nomadic heritage and dowry commission quality. It stands as an exceptional, highly unique work of Caucasian tribal art, bringing an immense sense of historical narrative, archaic power, and sophisticated, grounding aesthetics to both specialized textile collections and contemporary spaces.

Stock No: 5121

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