A 'Star' Kazak Rug, Southwest Caucasus

Overall measurements: 152cm across the top, 154cm across the bottom, 217cm along the left, 210cm along the right. Soft lustrous wool with flexible handle. 3mm pile overall with some oxidisation to the browns, mostly in the border, as visible from the photograph, and to areas of the light aubergine within the main field. There are two slight fold lines centre left side, on only visible from the reverse, some smaller in lower left corner only visible from the reverse. Both ends with original flatweave and knotted warp fringing. With minute repairs in corners, as visible in the photograph. With original indigo double sidecords. Striking and dramatic design harmoniously balanced in colour and decorative border. A lovely example of its type.
"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."

'Star' Kazaks are widely viewed as one of the foremost collectable Caucasian rug types. Robert Pinner and Michael Franses' seminal study of 1980 divided them into four varying design categories, groups A to D. Based on their research the present work falls into the C group. See Star-Kazaks, Pinner, R., Franses, M., Hali, vol. 3, no 1, 1980, pp. 17-26 for further information on the group types.

In a design respect the present work is an archetypal example; however on comparison to other works within the group the offered lot does differ. The use of dark blue in the 'Crivelli star' and the dark turquoise in the arrows is uncommon. This trait would be more in tune with group A - an example, with use of similar colouring, is the topic of discussion in 'The Abadjian Star Kazak Rug', Herrmann, E., Hali, issue 49, 1990, pp. 14 and 15. An example from group C, with similar colouring, is again published by Eberhart Herrmann in Seltene Orientteppiche, Munich, 1985, Vol. VII, Cat. No. 27, pp. 68-69.

The present work is unusual in its clarity of drawing, harmonious symmetry and in particular blue hue. One similar sold at auction, Sotheby's New York, 10 June 2009, lot 44, although that example had extensive wear.