A Konya Prayer rug, Central Anatolia

acquired from Gary Muse, London, 1977

Alexander, C., A Foreshadowing of 21^st Century Art The Color and Geometry of Very Early Turkish Carpets, New York, 1993, pp. 38 & 39, ill. p. 39.

Overall measurements; 100cm across the top, 95cm across the bottom,123cm the left hand side,120cm the right hand side. Pile variable, generally 5-8mm. Browns oxidised. Some small holes and little cobbled repairs, e.g. lower right of red field - also a minor cobbled repair only visible from the back. Missing its outer guard stripes on all four edges, otherwise in very good and honest condition for its age. Fabulous colour.
"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."

An example exhibiting similar border is published in Eiland III, M. & Eiland Jr., M., Oriental Rugs A Complete Guide, London 1998, p. 190, fig. 160. However this example is triple columned with almost black inner and outer guards and the offered lot has the charming inclusion of the two coffee pots to the left and right of the mihrab.