A Khotan Rug, East Turkestan

Herrmann, Eberhart, Von Konya bis Kokand, Seltene Orientteppiche (Rare Oriental Carpets), Munich, Vol. III, Cat. No. 117, p.184

122cm across the top, 120cm across the bottom, 194cm the left side, 197cm the right side. Slight bow to lower right edge, 127cm at widest. Lustrous silky pile with flexible handle, generally 4mm overall. With some sections down to 1mm and knotheads in areas, for example areas of coral/madder ground within inner border on both sides, and on outer edges as visible from the photograph. Some weft threads visible as dark horizontal lines within the light yellow ground, commensurate with weave and colour used. Some minor oxidisation Top end with original flatweave with areas of loss extending into the upper coral guardstripe - as visible in the photograph. Vestiges of knotted fringe in far left corner, otherwise fringe lacking. Not overlocked. Lower end replaced with later outer guard, depth approx. 3cm with some losses and loose cords, again visible in the photograph made distinct by being a differing colour (rose/madder). Partially original sidecords. A very pretty example, a classic Khotan rug with balanced symmetrical drawing.
"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 comparable Khotan rug, Hsin Chiang, East Turkestan, 19th century (265 by 112cm), with white ground and madder overall design, see Herrmann, Eberhart, Seltene Orientteppiche, Munich, 1983, Vol. V., Cat. No. 90, pp.186-187.

For comprehensive discussion of Khotan carpets see, Bidder, Hans, Carpets from Eastern Turkestan, Washington International Associates, 1979, Chp.III, The Khotan Carpets, 1.The Vase-Pomegranate Pattern, pp.49-53, plates I & II.