An Ersari mafrash, Middle Amu Darya region, Turkestan

Pile generally near original 1/8 inch throughout; abrash of red to paler red in upper borders; an approximately 1 x 1 inch reweave to lower right corner; minor repaired hole in field. Sides overcast. Ends missing outer surround, both now secured with chainstitch. Upper end with hanging rings sewn to reverse. Very supple handle, lustrous wool, good overall 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A torba with very similar serrated guls arranged asymmetrically as part of an endless repeat is illustrated Werner Loges, Turkoman Tribal Rugs, London, 1980, pp. 162-63, no. 97. Another torba with this pattern from the Collection of Erik Risman was sold Sotheby's New York, 14 December 1995, lot 99 and offered Christie's London, 5 April 2011, lot 151. Whereas the torbas' guls are left mostly undecorated, the symmetrically placed guls in this mafrash are decorated with stylized secondary design elements.