Shirvan Prayer Rug

Second half 19th century, 132 x 116 cm, East Caucasus

In this very finely woven Shirvan prayer rug, a delicately drawn diamond lattice design composed of thin blue lines encloses small flowering plants and serrated diamonds. The slim bridge-shaped arch has been positioned at the very top of the field. The most striking feature of this prayer rug is the dense dot pattern of tiny diamonds seen in the field and the vertical borders. The progressively diminishing scale of the diamond lattice as it ascends is another remarkable element. – Good condition, slight signs of wear in the pile, new overcasting along the sides.