A Melas prayer rug, Southwest Anatolia

Overall measurements: 113cm across the top, 118cm across the bottom, 155cm along left side, 151cm along right side Pile overall good, generally 2-4mm in depth, outermost zig-zag guard stripes partially rebuilt on sides, approximately 50 cm at lower end; outermost zig-zag guards at upper at lower edges partially rebuilt and refringed, reweave in upper portion of mihrab, and in top right corner of border, well executed; rug is in sound, ready to use condition.
"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 is the classic design for a 19th century Melas prayer rug and a lovely example. A work with similar use of colouring and composition, particularly in the inner, outer and main borders, can be seen illustrated in the exhibition catalogue, Ettinghausen, Richard, Prayer Rugs, U.S.A, 1974, pp. 70-71, pl. XX. Another example sold with the Austria Auction Company, Vienna, 15 March 2014, lot 151, which also employs similar use of colour and is comparable in its use of stylised vines, leaves, flowerheads and palmettes in the main border.