An Avedis Tamishjian Kum Kapi silk and metal thread prayer rug, Istanbul, Northwest Anatolia

"Avedis Tamishjian" Kufic signature in central metal thread palmette

Pile generally very good, near original, closely shorn 1/10in. overall. Some oxidation to metal thread areas. Sides with original selvages with minor breaks and bends. Ends with original silk fringes. In very good condition overall.
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.

Avedis Tamishjian was a master weaver who established workshops in the Kum Kapi district of Istanbul around 1920 and who worked for the merchant Nuh'negi, see Pamela Bensoussan, "The Masterweavers of Istanbul," Hali, issue 26, p. 38.   The Kum Kapi school was reputedly started by two Armenians, Zara Agha of Keyserie and Apraham Agha of Sevas in the late 19th century, see George F. Farrow, Hagop Kapoudjian, The First and Greatest Master of the Kum Kapi School, London 1993, p. 11.   Kum Kapi rugs such as this are known for their use of fine materials, such as silk and metal-thread and for the superior technical skill of their weavers.  The Sultan's head design of this prayer rug is very associated with the work of a more prolific Kum Kapi master, Zareh Penyamian.  While rugs by Zareh appear on the market almost every year, there have been only a handful of rugs from the workshop of Tamishjian to have appeared in the last two decades, Christie's London, 4 October 2011, lot 21; 25 October 2007, lot 103; 15 October 1998, lot 289; 11 October 1990, lot 13; and two previously known in the George Farrow collection, see The Farrow Collection Catalogue, No. 2, nos. MWI 45 and MWI 46.