A fine Kum Kapur silk prayer rug, Turkey, circa 1900

silk and metal threads, the central field composed as a prayer niche with an ogee-shaped arch bordered by bands of calligraphy framing a central oblong inscription cartouche with the takbir in nasta'liq, the main field with a deep red ground profusely decorated with cloudbands, lotuses and floral scrolls, the spandrels with a vase issuing floral scrolls inhabited by birds on a blue ground, the borders with a broad band of calligraphic cartouches and four lobed medallions with inscriptions, with narrow bands of floral scrolls, gold and silver tassels at both ends

Silk pile generally near original closely sheared. Metal thread areas flatwoven and generally intact. Foundation brittle, indicating some rot, recommend hanging. Silk brocade floral decoration to metal areas of outer guard border. Some silk delineating cloud bands in metal areas of field decoration. Salvages intact, folded under due to density of weave. A small 1cm rip in upper left corner with attendant fraying. Ends with 6mm green flatweave, then long gold coloured silk fringes. (There are no metallic threads in the fringes as the catalogue incorrectly states). Upper end with losses to fringes, lower end fringes more intact.
"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."

inscriptions

Inside the arch: The takbir.

In the band forming the arch:  Four couplets from a qasida of Manuchehr Damghani (d. circa 432/1040-41), followed by the name: 'Manuchehr' (in the past, it was erroneously suggested that Manuchehr was the maker).

In the long border cartouches:  Qur'an, chapter II (al-Baqarah), 255.

In the small cartouches:  Invocations to God