Antique Shahsevan Long Rug

Period: Late 19th Century
Origin: Shahsevan
Dimensions: 118 x 280 cm

This rare late 19th century Caucasian Shahsevan long rug highlights a powerful and rhythmic geometric composition featuring a midnight indigo field populated by a vertical sequence of multi colored, hexagonal medallions. This structural balance between the deep, saturated field and the vibrant, repeating tribal motifs reflects the pinnacle of the Shahsevan nomadic weaving tradition, known for its bold graphic tension and archaic symbolic language. Rugs of this antiquity are world renowned for their inclusion of charming zoomorphic details, such as the numerous stylized white and red animal figures (quadrupeds) scattered throughout the indigo field.

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, and soft forest green. 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 19th century Transcaucasian productions. The inclusion of a complex, multi layered border system—anchored by an ivory ground primary border decorated with a rhythmic sequence of geometric “star” and diamond cartouches—creates a precise visual frame that highlights the superior wool quality and distinctive technical finesse of the Shahsevan weavers.

Structural analysis indicates the use of premium hand spun local wool with a characteristically resilient pile and a firm, substantial handle. The exceptional clarity of the angular outlines—specifically the minute geometric details within the medallions and the precisely executed guard borders—and the presence of significant, harmonious abrash throughout the indigo field definitively distinguish this antique masterpiece from later commercial examples. Ultimately, this Shahsevan long rug stands as a premier example of Caucasian textile art, representing a peak in both technical endurance and graphic majesty for global textile collectors.

Stock No : 1355

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