Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets has dated this piece to the 1880s.
The motif within the mihrab is a stylised tree - a symbol to these people reflecting the 3-level universe - where the roots are in the under-world, the trunk is in the earthly-world and the branches are in the world of the spirit. This tree symbol is usually only found on large main carpets of the Timuri - in compartments of 4-6 in the central field - but uncommon on small rugs.
Timuri rugs like this one, in excellent condition, are very rare today, but this small size is much rarer.
Size: 1.10m x 0.69m (3' 7" x 2' 3").
Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets has dated this piece to the 1880s.
Dealing in antique and old tribal rugs, dowry weavings and decorative carpets from the near east and central asia since 1979.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets Profile Page
Antique Prayer-rug, Timuri Tribes, Western Afghanistan.
