Serial No.: 0009818
Origin: Caucasian, Azerbaijan
Town: Shirvan
Age: Early 20th Century
Style: Tribal Geometric
Size: 4’2″ x 7′
Material: Wool pile and wool foundation, vegetable dyed
Color Scheme: Ivory, Red, Brown, Blue
Condition: Excellent
Expert Description
This early 20th-century rug from Shirvan is an exemplary representation of Caucasian tribal weaving, showcasing a bold geometric design that combines an ivory field with striking accents of red, brown, and blue. Although produced in Shirvan, its stylistic characteristics reveal notable influences from the historic weaving traditions of the Zeiwa region—a center renowned for its refined motif execution and dynamic patterning.
Design & Motifs
The composition is defined by its strong tribal geometric motifs that feature interlocking shapes and crisp angular forms. The primary field, rendered in a soft ivory hue, provides a luminous backdrop against which the vivid red and deep blue details stand out. Subtle brown accents interweave with these primary colors to create a balanced visual rhythm. Such a design reflects a deliberate, almost architectural, arrangement of medallions and border elements—a trait frequently observed in the Zeiwa tradition, where careful attention to scale and proportion has long been a hallmark.
Weaving Techniques & Materials
Woven entirely by hand, this piece employs the symmetrical (Turkish) knot, a technique that ensures the precise replication of complex geometric patterns. Both the pile and the foundation are made from high-quality local wool, which lends the rug a durable yet luxurious texture. The use of vegetable dyes—likely sourced from madder for red, indigo for blue, and natural plant extracts for brown—produces a vibrant color palette that matures gracefully over time. This natural dyeing process is celebrated for producing slight tonal variations (abrash), which add depth and individuality to the rug.
Cultural & Historical Context
Historically, the town of Shirvan has been a vital center for rug production in Azerbaijan, where familial workshops and community traditions have preserved unique design vocabularies over generations. The motifs in this rug are more than mere decorative elements; they serve as cultural symbols, conveying messages of protection, prosperity, and continuity that are integral to the local heritage.
Artistic Significance
Maintained in excellent condition, this rug stands as a testament to the enduring artistry of Caucasian weaving traditions. Its sophisticated interplay of color and form not only serves a functional purpose but also encapsulates the cultural narratives and technical expertise of its makers. The fusion of Shirvan’s robust tribal design with Zeiwa’s refined aesthetic results in a piece that is both visually compelling and historically significant. Ideal for collectors and connoisseurs of antique textiles, it offers a tangible connection to the rich heritage of Azerbaijani rug-making—a craft where each knot tells a story and every hue is a legacy of natural beauty and regional artistry.
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