Kazakh Rug, Caucasus. Dated 1923 And Signed. 287 X 175 Cm

The piece proudly bears the mark of its century-old history and is in impeccable condition—nothing short of a miracle. It appears the rug has survived the passage of time, protected inside a chest.

A superb Kazakh rug from the Caucasus, hand-knotted in wool-on-wool, dated 1341 AH (1922–1923). This piece captivates with the power of its design, the balance of its composition, and the brilliance of its plant-based dyes.

The main field is organized around a large indigo-blue cruciform medallion, the true focal point of the composition. This shape evokes a protective or sacred space around which the entire design is organized. The two large blue motifs that enliven it resemble stylized trees of life, a universal symbol of growth, fertility, and the connection between earth and sky. In Caucasian traditions, this tree protects the home and accompanies the cycle of life.

A rich decorative vocabulary unfolds around this central motif: birds, stylized four-legged animals, flowers, rosettes, and trees. Birds are generally interpreted as messengers between the earthly and spiritual worlds, while four-legged animals symbolize prosperity, strength, and abundance. The small rosettes represent life, light, and renewal, and the stylized trees are symbols of longevity and protection.

The particularly refined border frames the entire design with a succession of rosettes and protective geometric motifs, reinforcing the harmonious character of the composition.
The colors are remarkable: a deep madder red dominates the field, contrasted by an intense indigo blue of great depth. They are enriched with shades of ivory, brown, ochre, pink, and light blue, creating a chromatic balance typical of the finest Caucasian weaves of the early 20th century.

This rug also features two woven inscriptions, a relatively rare occurrence. The first indicates the date 1341 of the Hijri calendar, corresponding to 1922–1923. The second bears the first name Ismail, most likely that of the weaver, the patron, or a family member for whom this piece was intended. These inscriptions lend the carpet a particularly endearing historical and personal dimension.

With its exquisite design, rich symbolism, and woven date, this Kazakh carpet is a magnificent example of Caucasian textile art from the first quarter of the 20th century.

The quality of the hand-spun wool is exceptional. It is this wool that allows the natural hues to fully express themselves with the depth so characteristic of antique Kazakh rugs.

Signed Ismaïl
Dated 1923
Dimensions: 287 x 175 cm

Laurent
Beauty of Kilims