A Seychour rug, East Caucasus

Measurements 98cm wide across the top, 101cm. across the bottom, 146cm long left side, 146cm long right side. Pile overall good, approximately 2mm deep, close, evenly sheared. Oxidisation to browns forming vine trellis in field, and in the guard borders. Originally knotted fringing with soumakh finishes, with some losses to `tails' at upper end, lower end similar but with partial losses to soumakh. Side cords mainly original with some losses, slight nick to lower right hand corner, small repair mid way up the left hand side in side cords. Specialist Comment: Tiny bit of aniline orange in the outer borders, but pile in lovely condition. Verry pretty piece.
"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 an exceptional example of this type, with the combination of alternating blossom and leaf motif in the main field, and the distinctive border, see Herrmann, Eberhart, Kaukasische Teppichkunst im 19.Jahrhundert, Ein Bilderbuch, Munich, 1993, No.15, pg.31, with a very unusual green ground (180 by 135cm), later sold at Sotheby’s, New York, 11^th June 2008, lot 76. A small example (78 by 70cm) with a similar main field design, and narrow and different border type, sold Sotheby’s, London, 6^thApril 2011, lot 461.

For an example of a Seychour which shows the European influence in having an overall design of roses and carnations and further stylised rose within the border design, moving away from the classical ‘running dog’ motif and geometric repeat flower head border present in the offered example, see Schürmann, Ulrich, Caucasian Rugs, Maryland, 1990, pg.302. & pl.117, which covers weaving in the various districts of the Caucasus during the 18^th and 19^th century.