The Lesghian''s were the largest ethnic group in Dagestan, this fascinating tribe were known to be quite ruthless.  With all men having shaved heads, and born to fight, this was a tribe of warriors. Whilst the men were out at war, the women of the tribe looked after the children and knotted beautiful rugs and runners.  Producing beautiful examples such as this early antique Lesghi runner, dating from the late 19th century.Their design of ''Lesghi Stars'' is very famous, this large star design running down the centre of the runner is their trademark pattern, with their neighbours in Shirvan borrowing the Stars for their weavings but they could not compete with the Lesghians in the clarity of the pattern.   Amazing natural dyes, with glorious greens, reds and pale blues, the off-white natural wool in the main border lifts the whole composition.  Corrosion to the black dyes due to the iron properties of the wool give an embossed effect.A truly stunning tribal runner from the Cauca...