A Karachopt Kazak rug, Southwest Caucasus

Overall measurements: 147cm across the top, 155cm across the bottom, 237cm along left side, 221cm along right side Extraordinary pile overall, 10-12mm in depth generally. Some extremely minor fold-wear in the medallion. Browns partially oxidised. Some evidence of old moth in upper left hand outer guard stripe and a couple of nibbles in the blue guard as visible in the photograph. Original side cords, mainly complete on right hand side, only partially extant on left hand side. Braided end finish mainly complete at upper end with some breaks and losses to top left hand corner as visible in photograph, lower end similar again with losses to lower left hand corner and cobbled repair approx. 3cm in diameter (again possibly from the result of moth damage in lower outer guard stripe approx. 30cm. along from left hand corner). Pile is a bit rucked, probably could do with a very light clean and brush. A good range of colour and a very nice green ground, overall in outstanding condition for age.
"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 attractively abrashed turquoise blue/green field and amber border is an unusual colour combination for a Karachopt Kazak; please see Herrmann, E., Kaukasische Teppichkunst Im 19. Jahrhundert Ein Bilderbuch, Germany, 1993, p. 72. pl. 56 for a rug with similar colouring, dated by Herrmann to circa 1800. 

In the present lot, the four hooked 'spandrel' squares have an uncommon arrangement of stars: the top two squares have seven stars inclusive of a tulip rosette and the bottom two, six with a tulip rosette, rather than the more usual, and more static arrangement of three rows of three.  Whilst the Karatchopt design appears at first reading to be very archaic, its likely origin lies in the 18th century Northwest Persian garden carpets, (for an example, see Sotheby's, New York, 2 December 2003, Lot 151) where the central octagonal medallion represents the pool with island and trees, and the four starred corner squares, the flower beds.  That sense of repose to be found in a Persian garden, which the earlier garden carpets sought to capture is here achieved through the harmonious range of colours, vibrant but never clashing, and the inidividual interpretation of the design.  See also Lot 40 in this sale for another example of a Karachopt Kazak.