Malatya Kilim / Anatolia. Circa 1880. 110 X 90 Cm

Let’s start by clarifying that this piece is actually a “Cuval,” or, in other words, an old grain sack. It has simply been unstitched to create a flat surface that’s ideal for placing on the floor or hanging on the wall.
This refined piece embodies the art of late 19th-century weaving and belongs to the broad family of everyday objects once used by the nomadic peoples of Eastern Anatolia. One must imagine the nomadic way of life and understand that each “Cuval” had to be identifiable and unambiguously attributable to its owners. Thus, each object was personalized through a selection of patterns, composition, and colors—a signature.
I am often asked about the clues for dating a piece. Here they are, in order of importance: colors, texture, and motifs. Each of these elements is associated with a specific period. Although this remains an estimate, the method is sufficiently precise. We can then divide a century into four quarters. Based on the characteristics mentioned above, this Cuval dates to the late 19th century. Its dense, saturated, exclusively plant-based dyes are as deep as they are luminous. We speak of purity. This visual and aesthetic quality is achieved through long and complex processes that permanently fix the colors within the wool fibers. Once fixed, the colors have a durability that spans several centuries, and their brilliance is eternal.
The wool-on-wool weave is exceptionally fine. Other qualities stand out—precision and regularity—which lend the fabric a supple and lightweight appearance. It is nothing short of sensational.
The design consists of a series of horizontal bands, each ending at both ends with a band featuring embroidered motifs on the surface.
These are the elements that allow us to classify this piece as a Cuval originating from Malatya, located in southeastern Anatolia. Furthermore, the piece is specifically referenced in specialized publications.
It is a little marvel, and we are proud to present it to you here.
A highly decorative collector’s piece.
Circa 1880.
Dimensions: 110 x 90 cm
Perfect condition

Laurent
Beauty of Kilims