A Yomud Asmalyk, West Turkestan

Nagel, Stuttgart, March 22, 2011, lot 162

Pile ranges from near original 1/8th of an inch with dark browns oxidized to knotheads, scattered moth damage also low to knotheads with two areas in the field the largest being 1in by 1/2in exposing warps and along the right center edge moth damage to outer guard borders. Scattered spot stains and discolorations. Sides with remnants of original purple brown selvages with losses into right side guard stripe. Ends with flatwoven end finishes, folded over and sewn. Small slits at the top and a five inch irregular loss to lower right corner. Very flexible handle; sound fabric and 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.

The seven-sided form of this asmalyk is found less frequently than pentagonal works, such as lots 70, 71, 73 and 82 in this catalogue.  The striking, minimal design of stylized branches here appears much less frequently than the serrated trellis pattern, such as lots 70 and 71, and more often on works with an ivory field.  The red ground found here is much more rare with three published related examples; an asmalyk in the Hermitage, St. Petersburg, see Elena Tzareva, Rugs and Carpets from Central Asia, Leningrad, 1984, pl. 74, pp. 116-117; a fragmentary piece sold Rippon Boswell, May 19, 2007, lot 39 once in a German collection, see Peter A. Andrews, et al., Wie Blumen in der Wüste, Hamburg, 1993, no. 6; and another in Uwe Jourdan, Oriental Rugs: Turkoman, Vol. 5., pl. 199.