19th Century Antique Lenkoran Karabagh Rug

About the Item

Lenkoran – Karabagh, South Caucasus Magnificent Caucasian Lenkoran rug woven from the finest velvety wool found in the Talish region of Southern Azerbaijan. Made at the end of the 19th century and based on the esoteric traditions of the villages of Lenkoran, this fascinating antique carpet impresses with the boldness of its design. Three central medallions in the shape of polygons are made in blue, red, and burgundy contrast with the navy-blue background of the carpet. These medallions are known as tosbaga, which means turtle. Inside each medallion is a smaller medallion. The more oversized medallion depicts the mother turtle, and the smaller one represents her children. A set of geometric and anthropomorphic figures adorns each medallion. Around it, rosebuds, stars, stylized animals and S-shaped figures are found. The medallions alternate with horizontal bands in perfectly combined tones. Finally, the entire area is surrounded by three borders of burgundy, blue, and salmon colours that protect the symbols on the inside. Ancient Lenkorans are very rare and are generally narrow. It is an exceptional piece due to its non-standard width for a Lenkoran. The carpet is clean and ready for use. Lenkoran is a small town in the Talish district, in the western part of the Caspian Sea, southwest of Caucasus. The majority of its population is Tatars and Azerbaijanis. Lenkoran rugs are part of the Karabagh Caucasian rugs. Lenkoran rugs have a geometric design. The centre design is a medallion that resembles the shape of a turtle, along with other stylized animals scattered around the central area of the rug. Other common geometric designs can be wrapped around the main one: stars, diamonds with hooks, flowers, animals, and birds. The colour of the central area is usually dark, and the edges are lighter, like ivory. Lenkoran rugs are generally narrow and long, and the wool is excellent. While it is easy to identify a Lenkoran by its geometric appearance, ancient Lenkorans are rare.

Dimensions:

Width: 62.21 in (158 cm)Length: 102.37 in (260 cm)

Materials and Techniques:

Wool,Hand-Knotted

Place of Origin:

Caucasus

Period:

Late 19th Century

Date of Manufacture:

Circa 1875

Condition:

Repaired.