A Bergama 'Ghirlandaio' Rug, West Anatolia

Pile variable overall. Some due to differential in corrosion rates. Upper border, with possible extensive repiling. Dark, discoloured section in the centre, through to reverse in blue/red/orange section. Original black and white side cords with some lossses. Flat weave along the top end. Lower end with reduced end guard, extant in central stip only. Cotton strip applied to reverse with red sleeve for baton and for supporting reduced kilim. We would recommend inspection.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The design type called `Ghirlandaio' after the Italian mid 15th century painter Domenico Ghirlandaio, who depicted this rug type in his painting, `Madonna Enthroned'. It is based upon octagons within medallions, and incorporation of hooked guls. For comparables, see Sotheby's, New York, 14th December 2001, lot 60 and Sotheby's, New York, 2nd June 2010, lot 70. In addition there is a comparable piece with a yellow border in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, see McMullan, Joseph, Islamic Carpets, New York, 1965, pl.96, pp.296-297. These cited examples have a single medallion, and four small corner medallions, rather than the two that appear within the main field of the present piece.