Kazak Kilim. Caucasus. Circa 1880. 240 X 167 Cm

Raw, graphic, and surprisingly contemporary: a Kazak kilim whose modernity seems to have been ahead of its time...

The composition is constructed like a true textile architecture, organized into wide horizontal bands that follow one another with great regularity. The powerful ram’s-horn motifs, arranged in a mirror pattern around small diamond-shaped medallions, alternate across the red fields, while the indigo-blue sections feature large polygonal medallions with radiating forms.

This alternation between wide and narrow bands, solid motifs, and colored spaces creates a particularly powerful, almost architectural graphic rhythm. The design language is ancestral, but its treatment, repetition, and this remarkable “economy” of means give the whole piece an almost abstract presence.
The piece consists of two panels joined and sewn together, a technique characteristic of ancient nomadic textiles.

The color palette is remarkable. It centers on a madder red—at times vivid and luminous, at others slightly muted—and a deep indigo blue that serves as the composition’s primary counterpoint. These two dominant colors are complemented by a grayish turquoise blue, an ecru ivory, a very dark, almost black brown, a few touches of ultramarine blue, and a surprising, slightly golden champagne hue, particularly visible in the large medallions. This last shade, soft and luminous, is quite unexpected and plays beautifully with the depth of the indigo and the warmth of the madder red.

The result is a particularly masterful harmony: the colors are powerful without ever becoming garish. Despite the motifs’ striking graphic presence, the piece retains a surprising softness and warmth.

The appearance is almost painterly. A succession of large blocks of color and archaic shapes transforms this kilim into a true textile painting: an ocean of color to be laid on the floor.

Wool on wool.
Extremely fine and precise weaving.
The vegetable dyes attest to the full extent of the craftsmanship of ancient Kazak productions.

Caucasus – late 19th century, circa 1880.

Very good overall condition. A few old, well-executed restorations. One or two small stains on the back of the piece.

Dimensions: 240 × 167 cm

Laurent
Beauty of Kilims