AN ANIMAL COMBAT CARPET, SOUTHEAST CAUCASUS

AN ANIMAL COMBAT CARPET, SOUTHEAST CAUCASUS

17th or early 18th century

approximately 222 by 102cm; 7ft. 3in., 3ft. 4in.

Condition Report:
Overall pile generally fair (good for age), closely sheared, varying from 1mm knot tails to knot heads, with spot foundation just visible, slightly more worn through the central vertical axis of the field. The front cover details shows the general condition of the rug. Lustrous wool and very good colour and a close dense weave with good handle. There is an old rewoven section along the central vertical axis (quite probably, judging by fading, from Schurmann’s time). This reweave is an irregularly stepped shape about 90cm in total length at max., and varying from approx.. 3 – 10cm in width, the widest point being in the lower centre of the central medallion. This could be rewoven; redyed in the dark blue to ‘knock it back’, or simply left as part of the history of the rug. There are a couple of cobbled repairs in the lower quarter of the field, which would benefit from being done properly, and a repaired split across the upper body of the lower left hand bull, about 15cm in length, which would also benefit from some attention. The outer red guards bands on each side have been slightly trimmed and re-overcast; the yellow borders at each end are partially rebuilt.

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Provenance:
Dr. Ulrich Schürmann, Cologne

Prof. Dr Günther Marschall Collection, sold Austria Auction Company, Vienna, 16 September 2014, lot 85