Akstafa Prayer Rug

First half 19th century, 161 x 81 cm, East Caucasus, Shirvan region

The blue-black field contains a large-scale diamond lattice of white serrated leaves which surround diamonds, hooked diamonds and botehs drawn in the geometric style of the Caucasus. The white arch placed at the upper end of the field is decorated with diagonal crosses in diverse colours. The box-shaped niche encloses hooked diamonds and blossoms as well as a comb motif. The long format and the striking double hooks seen in the brilliant white main border are characteristic features of these Akstafa prayer rugs. – Excellent condition, with the pile at its original height and original finishes all around.

HERRMANN, EBERHART, Kaukasische Teppichkunst im 19. Jahrhundert. Ein Bilderbuch. München 1993, Nr.16 *** BENARDOUT, RAYMOND, Caucasian Rugs. London 1978, Tf. S.46