Akstafa
second half 19th century, 187 x 99 cm, East Caucasus, Shirvan
The long and narrow format is a characteristic feature of Akstafa prayer rugs. Exceptionally, this example does not belong to the large group presenting arches at the upper end of the field, thus it is not a prayer rug. Narrow, slightly sinuous diagonal stripes in dark blue, red and white decorated with tiny crosses combine into a dense repeat of a flowing nature that may symbolise water. One stripe at the lower end is light brown. The white main border comprising a vine of abstract birds is flanked by two wide secondary borders of reciprocal trefoils.
HERRMANN, EBERHART, Kaukasische Teppichkunst im 19. Jahrhundert. Munich 1993, no. 9
Condition
Very good condition.
second half 19th century, 187 x 99 cm, East Caucasus, Shirvan
The long and narrow format is a characteristic feature of Akstafa prayer rugs. Exceptionally, this example does not belong to the large group presenting arches at the upper end of the field, thus it is not a prayer rug. Narrow, slightly sinuous diagonal stripes in dark blue, red and white decorated with tiny crosses combine into a dense repeat of a flowing nature that may symbolise water. One stripe at the lower end is light brown. The white main border comprising a vine of abstract birds is flanked by two wide secondary borders of reciprocal trefoils.
HERRMANN, EBERHART, Kaukasische Teppichkunst im 19. Jahrhundert. Munich 1993, no. 9
Condition
Very good condition.
