How do I identify a Kazak rug?

Kazak rugs are distinguished by their bold geometric medallions, wide borders, and saturated primary colour palettes. They originate from the southern Caucasus and reflect distinct village weaving traditions. Look for large hooked polygons, stars, and animal motifs rendered in thick hand-spun wool with natural vegetable dyes.

Where were these carpets made?

These textiles were produced in the Caucasus region, situated between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Specific styles originate from localized areas including Shirvan, Karabagh, and Moghan. Nomadic and settled village weavers created these works using regional wool and traditional dyeing methods.

What is a Soumak weave?

Soumak is a flatweave technique where coloured wool threads wrap around the warp yarns rather than forming a knotted pile. This method creates a sturdy, textured surface with distinct diagonal lines. Soumak pieces often incorporate complex geometric patterns and scarce motifs like dragons or birds.

How do I care for an old wool carpet?

Protect antique wool carpets by placing them in low-traffic areas away from direct sunlight to preserve the vegetable dyes. Regular gentle vacuuming without a beater bar removes trapped dust from the pile. Use a breathable underlay to prevent slipping and support the cotton and wool foundation fibres.

What are Lezghi stars?

Lezghi stars are distinctive eight-pointed geometric motifs frequently found on caucasian rugs from eastern and southern districts. The design resembles an octagonal star enclosing geometric filler elements. This motif provides a key visual indicator for identifying specific regional weaving provenances within the Caucasus.