A Shirvan Karagashli rug, East Caucasus

Overall measurements: 141cm across the top, 145cm across the bottom, 311cm along left side, 317cm along right side. Pile generally fair, 1 - 2 mm deep but with areas of wear to knotbars in borders and centre of field. Areas of wear to foundation in lower red feather palmette and lower blue medallion. Areas of foundation visible in upper blue medallion probably the result of old moth damage. Half a dozen of fold wear lines in right hand border, several of which have been over stitched in wool. Areas of moth damage in upper border visible in photograph as a light coloured area. Other minor mothed areas scattered across edge of lower border; similarly areas of moth damage to pile in lower border and some small scattered re-piling. Dark browns oxidised to foundation, particularly in lower 20% of field. Extreme outermost barber pole guard stripe edge removed at both ends and sides with trimmed warp fringing and sides re-overcast. Good clear bright colours, particularly nice greens and yellows, overall a very attractive example.
"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."

This attractively bright Karagashli is a classic example of the group with the use of lozenge medallions and two outer feathered palmettes typically madder coloured. This is evident from published works such as Schurmann, Ulrich, Caucasian Rugs, Germany, 1974, pp. 196 - 197, pl. 66. The inclusion of the stylised peacocks to the bottom of the field and the four, smaller, feathered palmettes with apple green motifs toward the centre make the present lot an interesting juxtaposition to the Schurmann example. The use of saffron in the central medallion and blue in the outer two medallions make it a very harmonious piece.  

See also Lots 29 and 47 in this sale for examples of Shirvan Karagashli rugs.