Perhaps one of the most recognisable designs, second only to the Tekke gul rugs. The Chelaberd rugs from the Karabagh are most often referred to as eagle Kazaks. The design has evolved from the old dragon rugs and now appears more like a heraldic symbol. These are popular pieces and can fetch high prices in the market, the 19th century examples commanding the best prices as ever. This one I believe to be a little later but still of good age and a nice palette excepting a synthetic pink which has bled in places. The three main medallions are bold, the outer ones being on a white background lighten what could have been a very dark rug. They freshen the design and generally the colours are soft and pleasing. I like the way the top medallion is cut off by the border, running out of warp or deliberate design? Probably the former although I have had examples of Caucasian rugs with a whole medallion cut in half. This is a classic rug with a commanding presence and an antique item in the pures...