Antique Marashali Rug

Period: Mid 19th Century
Origin: Marashali, Caucasus
Dimensions: 118 x 146 cm

This rare middle of the 19th century Caucasian Marashali rug highlights a powerful and rhythmic floral composition featuring a midnight indigo field densely populated with a staggered array of multi colored Boteh (pear) motifs. This structural balance between the dark saturated field and the vibrant internal patterning of each individual Boteh reflects the pinnacle of the Shirvan region’s weaving tradition. Marasali rugs of this antiquity are world renowned for their high level of technical finesse and the sophisticated rendering of the Boteh motif where each element is filled with unique geometric and floral details.

The color palette is masterfully balanced featuring a primary midnight indigo ground that serves as a dramatic canvas for high contrast shifts of madder red ivory sky blue and golden yellow. These rich and enduring tones achieved through the expert application of natural dyes over 170 years ago exhibit a chromatic strength and a saturated depth that are hallmarks of the finest mid 19th century Caucasian productions. The inclusion of a complex multi layered border system anchored by a distinctive Shirvan “bird” or “leaf and calyx” primary border on an ivory ground creates a precise visual frame that highlights the superior wool quality and distinctive technical excellence of the Marasali weavers.

Structural analysis indicates the use of premium hand spun local wool with a characteristically fine dense pile and a crisp resilient handle. The exceptional clarity of the geometric outlines specifically the intricate “cross” motifs in the guard borders and the diverse internal hatchings of the Boteh 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 Marasali rug stands as a premier example of Caucasian tribal art representing a peak in both technical endurance and graphic majesty for global textile collectors.

Stock No : 2484

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