Karabagh/Karabakh Rugs

Karabagh/Karabakh rugs: Eagerly sought after by collectors as well as designers, have one of the oldest and most varied design traditions of any antique Caucasian rugs. Many are descended from the classical Caucasian carpets of the eighteenth century. Others are more closely related to Kazaks, with large medallion patterns and a more tribal geometric sensibility. But still others have realistic floral ornament related to Aubusson and Savonnerie carpets in the West. But whatever their orientation, Karabaghs represent the best in quality and design among the rugs of the Caucasus.

These rugs were made in the south-eastern Caucasus close to the Kazak district and bordering north-eastern Iran. These rugs are exemplary in their quality and design and are considered amongst the best carpets made in the Caucasus region. This region uses a distinctive weave, a double weft which occurs between every two rows of knots. The geography of Karabagh contributes to the rugs falling into multiple design categories: the village type similar to the richly colored Kazaks, the city type influenced by classical Persian style and the Russian design appealing to Western tastes and sensibility. Karabagh rugs feature medallion like “eagle kazaks”, “cloudband kazaks” with medallions containing s-like forms and pictorial and realistic (French style, Aubusson and Savonnerie) floral motifs.