Antique Karachov Rug, Karachov Region, South-western Caucasus.

Name: Antique Karachov Rug, Karachov Region, South-western Caucasus.
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1164059
Availability: SoldOut

19th century

Sold by Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets

Description

This is an exceptional and very collectible rug from the region of Karachov in the south-western Caucasus, dated 1275 which translates to 1854 - as early a Karachov as can be found these days.

The overall talismanic design is typically Karachov with its large octagonal, central lozenge, in this case on a red ground, and two, square symbols at each end, all containing nine '8-pointed stars'. Within the central, octagonal lozenge, are various small symbols on an ivory background, which is not something readily seen in later 19th century Karachovs. Note also, the 'zigzag' lines on either side of the red ground, one longer than the other and below each line, are 'fives' or 'quincunx' - symbols of protection.

Lastly but hugely important, is the rare and early main border on an ivory background, which I see as double-headed sunbirds, symbolic guardians of the gates of Paradise.

This is a highly important rug which is smaller in size to the later 19th century Karachovs, and in very good overall condition.

Size: 1.86m x 1.40m (6' 1" x 4' 7").

Physical Dimensions

Height

186cm (73.23")

Width

140cm (55.12")

Declaration

Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets has dated this piece to the 1850s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1164059

Dealers Internal Reference

BM2134

Dealers Notes

Viewing by appointment only.

Description

This is an exceptional and very collectible rug from the region of Karachov in the south-western Caucasus, dated 1275 which translates to 1854 - as early a Karachov as can be found these days.

“

The overall talismanic design is typically Karachov with its large octagonal, central lozenge, in this case on a red ground, and two, square symbols at each end, all containing nine '8-pointed stars'.

Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets

Within the central, octagonal lozenge, are various small symbols on an ivory background, which is not something readily seen in later 19th century Karachovs. Note also, the 'zigzag' lines on either side of the red ground, one longer than the other and below each line, are 'fives' or 'quincunx' - symbols of protection.

fig 1. Antique Karachov Rug, Karachov Region, South-Western Caucasus. — fig 1. Antique Karachov Rug, Karachov Region, South-western Caucasus.

Lastly but hugely important, is the rare and early main border on an ivory background, which I see as double-headed sunbirds, symbolic guardians of the gates of Paradise.

This is a highly important rug which is smaller in size to the later 19th century Karachovs, and in very good overall condition.

Size: 1.86m x 1.40m (6' 1" x 4' 7").