Borchalou Rugs
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Learn More About Caucasian Borchalou Kazak Rugs
Borchalou rugs, also called Bordjalou or Borchaly, are one of the most important regional carpet groups in the western Caucasus. Dagestan, Shirvan, Kuba and Baku are famous for their decorative rugs. However, Borchalou is no less important. The historic Bordjalu Khanate encompassed the region between Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan and extending eastward toward Turkey. Nomadic groups and political turmoil obscure the history of the Borchalou name, which is linked to tribal groups from the time of Ghengis Khan as well as the Georgian city of Borchalo, now called Marneuli.
Marneuli, Bolnisi and Gardabani are the largest villages in the district. However, unique designs also come from Karachopf and Kuttar. The latter is famous for its Kazak pinwheel rugs. Historically, geographic and economic conditions required villagers to travel to a central point to sell their items. In the south, the cities of Gazakh and Gendje earned a reputation for fine antique rugs, and it’s likely that the city of Marneuli was the most accessible market point in the north.
The Borchalou designation includes several important Kazak and Caucasian design groups. These extremely decorative carpets have graphic rectilinear designs, fantastic monochrome spaces and high-contrast colors, including clear green, blue-green and vibrant cochineal red. Diamond-shaped latch-hooks are the basis of prototypical Borchalou rugs, but compartmental medallions, stacked lozenges, animals and iconographic symbols were also used. Split polygons with latchhook edges are one of the most common Borchalou border motifs. Complex counterchange figures are common too.
Caucasian Borchalou Kazak rugs should not be confused with Persian Borchalous that feature well-defined floral decorations and Hamadan-style medallions. These carpets from Persia’s Arak district are associated with a distant offshoot of the Borchali tribes, who migrated to the area nearly 1,000 years ago. Caucasian Borchalou rugs have a classic village style with strong tribal decorations that have been cherished by collectors and are perfectly suited for rustic and modern spaces.
a month ago
Twenty or so years ago my father gave me a beautiful antique Persian rug - after so many years (and kids and pets) it needed some TLC, so I brought it to Nazmiyal. I just picked it up today and - wow! They got the stains out entirely and the entire rug is brighter; they also made some repairs - it's back in my living room and looks fantastic, and the bill was lower than I'd expected. Overall it was a great experience - the people are wonderful, the work was perfect, and I saw so many beautiful rugs at their store that I found myself wishing for a larger apartment. Next time I need any work done on a rug, or find an open bit of floor I know where I'll be heading.
4 years ago
It is always a delight going to the Nazmiyal showroom. This Qashqai is one of several purchases made over the years, and mom is truly enjoying it. Jason and the staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. They listen to the customeru2019s needs. When I go to the showroom, it is like visiting my family because we have the same appreciation for the textile arts.nnOriental carpets are a rare discipline to be educated in, because you canu2019t go to a university to have certain types of training and experience, such as knowing the cultures and processes of carpet weaving. Jason has such a refined eye that he can distinguish a good rug from a great rug, and that knowledge is offered to the customer to elevate their point of view.nnComing here has been an initiation into a world of culture, art, and beauty which has sustained me, and for that I am grateful.
4 years ago
Loved my runner rug purchase from Nazmiyal. Love the ability to purchase, try and return if it didn't work out! I had it shipped to California and everything worked out beautifully!
a year ago
NAZMIYAL is the best source for antique and vintage rugs and carpets. Staff is extremely knowledgeable, Jason himself is an amazing dealer who handpicks each and every piece in his stunning collection and is happy to educate the consumer, not just make a sale. I always trust his experience and great eye for all my spaces!
4 years ago
I had an absolutely wonderful experience working with Nazmiyal. I was very impressed by their selection, the quality of their beautiful carpets, and their extremely reasonable prices. Really I cannot say enough about how helpful everyone at the gallery was - especially Omri, work with him if you can! - and how happy I am with my new antique rug. Five stars, highly, highly recommended!