Antique Caucasian Kazak Rug , Origin: Caucasus, Circa: Early 20th Century – The pastoral way of life is an integral part of the composition of many carpets woven by the Kazak rug artisans. The plants, animals and themes of everyday life are symbolically arranged in the warp and weft as a testament to their history and culture. This example is remarkable for its expansive multi layer surrounds and pleasing geometric proportions. The outer border is a classic barber pole pattern of red and ivory on earthy brown. Moving inward, the secondary stripe features delicate diamond rosettes inter-spaced with smaller triangular amulets of fawn and mild blue on contrasting red. More substantial, the primary border includes intricate stylized burdock on rich blue alternating with floral figures and stepped rectangular polygons on red – each separated by saw tooth and chevron barriers.
A fine tertiary stripe of complementary fawn and red triangular waves is nested adjacent to the main border. The rectangular central field is dominated by dragon and eye medallions amid an ample assortment of smaller rams horn, comb, and star devices on rich indigo. The central theme invokes the celestial, and the outer bands suggest the terrestrial; together they establish a pleasant harmony throughout. Unassuming and rustic at a glance, this antique area rug is sophisticated in arrangement and execution.
