A Talish rug, Southeast Caucasus

Measurements 93cm wide across the top, 98cm. across the bottom, 240cm long left side, 241cm long right side. Pile overall fair, 1-2mm, wear to knotheads in yellow, dark browns oxidised with foundation visible, some fuchsine and aniline orange highlights. In field small area of localised wear to foundation. Ends overcast, couple of small splits in upper border (the longer approx. 3cm), side cords rebound, vertical split at upper end (approx. 5cm. in length) third medallion from the right in the top border. Would benefit from a clean. Specialist Comment: Versatile size and balanced composition with bright and cheerful colours. For all sales which take place on or after 1 February 2015, please note that the rate of buyer's premium for each lot (charged as a percentage of the hammer price achieved for that lot) has been revised and shall be calculated at the thresholds set out below: Buyer's premium is 25% of the hammer price up to and including £100,000; Buyer's premium is 20% of the hammer price on any amount in excess of £100, 000 up to and including £1,800,000; Buyer's premium is 12% of the hammer price on any amount in excess of £1,800,000. As stated above, the revised thresholds are effective as of 1 February 2015.
"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."

For a very similar Talish rug, 19^th century (248 by 106cm), with three small square motifs in the narrow blue field with yellow surround, and outer blue and black border lacking on the present example, see Herrmann, Eberhart, Seltene Orientteppiche, Munich, 1985, Vol. VII, No.35, pp.86-87.