Antique Shirvan Rug

Period: Late 19th Century
Origin: Caucasian
Dimensions: 87 x 130 cm

This rare late 19th century Caucasian Shirvan rug highlights a powerful and rhythmic geometric composition featuring a vertical sequence of three monumental, star-filled octagonal medallions rendered in vibrant primary tones. This structural balance between the luminous sky blue field and the complex triple-medallion core—anchored by a central madder red rectangle—reflects the pinnacle of the East Caucasian weaving tradition. Shirvan rugs of this period are world renowned for their sophisticated technical execution and their ability to maintain a sense of ordered elegance within bold, high-contrast tribal designs.

The color palette is masterfully balanced, featuring a primary sky blue ground that serves as a dramatic canvas for high contrast shifts of madder red, ivory, and golden yellow. 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 Caucasian productions. The inclusion of a complex multi-layered border system—including a primary ivory ground border decorated with a rhythmic sequence of colorful “running dog” or serrated leaf motifs—creates a precise visual frame that highlights the superior wool quality and distinctive technical finesse of the village weavers.

Structural analysis indicates the use of premium hand spun local wool with a characteristically fine, even pile and a resilient handle. The exceptional clarity of the angular outlines—including the small geometric rosettes and stylized zoomorphic figures scattered throughout the field—and the presence of significant, harmonious abrash within the blue and red sections definitively distinguish this antique masterpiece from later commercial examples. Ultimately, this Shirvan rug stands as a premier example of Caucasian art, representing a peak in both technical endurance and graphic majesty for global textile collectors.

Stock No : 1240

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