Antique Kuba Shirvan Rug

Period: 3rd quarter 19th century
Origin: Kuba-Shirvan, Caucaus
Dimensions: 130 x 177 cm

This rare late 19th century Caucasian Kuba Shirvan rug highlights a powerful and rhythmic geometric composition featuring a dense all over lattice of vibrant diamond medallions rendered in primary tones. This structural balance between the midnight indigo field and the multiple intricate borders—including a primary ivory ground border decorated with colorful cruciform rosettes—reflects the pinnacle of the East Caucasian weaving tradition. Kuba Shirvan rugs of this period are world renowned for their sophisticated technical execution and their ability to maintain a sense of ordered elegance within highly complex, small scale tribal designs.

The color palette is masterfully balanced, featuring a primary midnight blue ground that serves as a dramatic canvas for high contrast shifts of madder red, golden yellow, forest green, 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 Caucasian productions. The inclusion of a multi layered border system, featuring the classic “Kufic” inspired patterns and geometric floral 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 and the presence of significant, harmonious abrash within the indigo and red sections definitively distinguish this antique masterpiece from later commercial examples. Ultimately, this Kuba 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 : 1370

Request Information