Antique Bakshaish Rugs 44666

Bakshaish Rug, Persia, Late 19th Century - Perhaps influenced by the Konaghend rugs produced to the north in the Caucasus, this stunning antique Bakshaish has adapted a classic Persian Herati design in red and gold, although its classic Persian origin hardly shows through the distinctive Bakshaish taste for bold abstract, geometric stylization. The strongly stylized 'pseudo-Kufic' main border with a design adapted from Medieval Islamic calligraphy is simply without parallel among Bakshaish weaving, truly one-of-a-kind. The rather graphic reciprocal minor borders provide the perfect foil for the delicate linearity of the field and main border. The finishing touch is the wonderful palette of soft reds, gold, and watery blue, with its jewel-like quality reminiscent of gold, lapis lazuli, and carnelian.