A rare and captivating example of East Caucasian tribal weaving, this antique Shirvan rug from the Akstafa region of the South Caucasus dates to approximately 1875–1900. Woven during the golden age of Caucasian rug production, before the widespread adoption of synthetic dyes, this piece represents authentic village craft at its most expressive.
The deep indigo field is anchored by a vertical column of bold geometric medallions rendered in madder red and sky blue, each containing a pinwheel rosette — a motif with ancient symbolic roots in Caucasian textile tradition.
Between the medallions, stylized animal figures including birds and horses animate the field, a hallmark characteristic of Akstafa-region Shirvans and among the most sought-after motifs by serious collectors. The ivory main border carries a rhythmic geometric repeat framed by dark guard stripes, grounding the composition with confident symmetry.
Construction & Authentication • Hand-knotted wool pile on wool foundation • Asymmetric (Persian) knot construction • Approximately 150 knots per square inch • Depressed warp structure characteristic of East Caucasian weaving • Natural wool selvedge, wool warp fringe • All natural dyes — indigo, madder, and vegetal yellows Condition
Honest age wear consistent with a piece of this antiquity. Even pile reduction across the field with areas of low pile. Foundation sound and stable. No repairs detected. The wear only enhances the luminosity of the natural dyes and the graphic power of the design. Dimensions
