A Bessarabian kilim carpet, Ukraine or Moldova

A fine, dovetailed tapestry weave generally intact. Walnut ground of central medallion oxidized to expose warps and with scattered reweaves, generally well executed. Small scattered spot stains. Upper end side guardborders folded under and sewn. Entire carpet sewn to linen backing, now stained. Very small scattered reweaves. Very good condition for age, recommend careful cleaning and some conversation.
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 kilims known to us as ‘Bessarabian’ were woven in the Russian regions of the Ukraine and Moldavia. Intended to satisfy the demands of the local nobility who had developed a taste for carpets with a European flavor, these flatweaves often feature a subdued palette, suited to the elegant neoclassical interiors they adorned. The present example with its lavish attention to detail and intricacy of design is far from typical Bessarabian production of the era. The grand scale alone sets it apart. It is likely that this finely woven carpet was designed for placement in the most exuberant and refined of interiors, palace-like in scale. Most probably this carpet was woven in response to a royal or aristocratic commission, or presented as a diplomatic gift, possibly to or by the Russian Imperial Court itself, where neoclassicism was the height of fashion in turn-of-the-century Saint Petersburg.