A Karachopt Kazak rug, Southwest Caucasus

Pile ranges from approximately 1/6 inch in yellow border to lower in field and low to knotheads in foldwear and oxidized browns. Large 10 x 9 inch reweave beneath medallion in field; two smaller, 4 x 3 inch, reweaves in medallion; few smaller scattered reweaves. Scattered repiling. Sides original polychrome three cord wool selvages, minor abrasions. Minor partial outer end guard stripes, some repiling, now secured with binding stitch. Very flexible handle, lustrous wool, luminous color; sound fabric and condition. Hanging rings sewn to reverse of upper end.
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.

Karachopt Kazak rugs with such pleasing soft yellow borders include one sold Sotheby's London, 27 April 2005, lot 5 and one sold Sotheby's New York, 3 March 2009, lot 31. These rugs share not only the coloring of their borders with the current piece, but also the small red reserves under star-filled ivory rectangular fields. Here, however, these scarlet areas do not include the commonly-used centrally symmetrical curled X-form design elements, but rather an unusual and naturalistic vine or cloudband pattern. Besides this uncommon secondary motif, the overall asymmetrical composition of the field, with the colorful flower spray at the top of the field centering the ivory rectangles and the horizontal row of bicolor flower heads running under the central medallion, is also striking and highly unusual.