Remarkable Geometric Caucasian Antique Shirvan Rug, Country of Origin / Rug Type: Antique Caucasian Rugs, Circa Date: 1900 – Shirvan carpets come from the southern Caucasus Mountains in an area that is modern Azerbaijan. This region is known for its agricultural production, which includes fine wools. This carpet is over one hundred years old and is an excellent example of the colors and patterns of Shirvan carpets.
Compared to other carpet groups of the Caucasus regions, there are relatively few Shirvans in existence. One of the unique design characteristics of antique Caucasian Shirvan carpets is that their color palette is limited, but they still manage to create spectacular designs with it. This gives them a minimalist appeal.
Shirvan carpets are striking in their simplicity and distinguished by characteristically fine weaves. The designs have a crisp clarity that makes them stand out among tribal rugs from the region. The backgrounds of the field are often deep, rich colors. The midnight blue color in the background of this carpet is characteristic of a Shirvan design.
The foundation of Shirvan design lies in the rich colors of the background. The remainder of the design is often characterized by a balance and symmetry of color and design that makes these carpets stand out magnificently. Shirvan carpets use classic tribal symbols in their design. These symbols have special meanings and represent the ideal that the weaver was trying to convey. This carpet is based on three large star motifs. It also contains several versions of the diamond motif. The balance of the design is sometimes thought to be representative of the cosmic balance of the universe. These symbols provide a unique look into tribal culture.
These antique carpets were unknown to the rest of the world until the completion of the Trans-Caucasian railway in the 1870s. The European market highly desired carpets such as this one, and Shirvan developed an important industry of economic scale because of the beauty of their designs and colors.
This exquisite Caucasian carpet has an earthy feel in the colors and designs that were used. The midnight background is like the midnight sky. The tribal symbols are carried out in earthy tones using simple designs combined in a way that gives this carpet a rustic charm. It is the perfect piece for any room of the house and small enough to be used in many different designs.