Antique Tribal Caucasian Kilim Rug, Country of Origin: Caucasus, Circa Date: Late 19th Century – Kilim rugs are defined by their lack of pile, which results in a thinner rug that is able to be set as a decorative element on either side. Because of the way these antique rugs work, it is not uncommon for them to be hung as tapestries or used in a functional ways because of their lighter weight and easier to adjust texture. Though the word kilim is Turkish in origin, the style of rug making spread quickly from Turkey as more and more weavers began to incorporate their culture’s styles and techniques. Kilim rugs, as a result, spread far and wide, to regions such as Africa and the Caucasus mountains.
Caucasian rugs are renowned for their beautifully tribal appearance. Because these antique tribal Caucasian Kilim rugs are defined by numerous elements found within smaller villages, rather than larger cities, the style of rug making was valued by collectors for feeling much more personal than many other varieties of Oriental rugs. The Caucasian style focuses on striking geometric motifs and vibrant colors, set with the right amount of grounding in order to provide the viewer with ample space to explore the surface as desired. These rugs may feature numerous different types of patterns as well, ranging from exquisitely bordered pieces to horizontally running ones that do not emphasize a surrounding framework.
This antique tribal Caucasian Kilim rug is one such example of a Caucasian rug that does not rely on the use of borders. The grounding is provided through the strong use of horizontal lines. Here, alternating shapes and colors mark the majority of the landscape as the points of contrast cascade down.
