A MOGHAN, POSSIBLY KUBA, LONG RUG, CENTRAL CAUCASUS |

Herrmann. E., Seltene Orientteppiche VI, Munich, 1984, pp. 94-95, pl. 32.

Overall measurements: 109cm across the top, 114cm across the bottom, 230cm the left hand side, 237cm the right hand side. Pile varies, generally 1-3mm. Browns partially oxidised. Glossy wool. Exceptional range of early colour, including very good mauve. Upper end with mainly extant original flatweave and knotted finish, with losses to outer edges as visible from image. Lower end bound with hessian strip and original finishes stitched down. Left hand side with losses to macrame and outermost barberpole guardstripe and imitation macrame end finish, approx. 25cm in length. Sidecords later. There are several localised re-weaves scattered throughout the rug, perhaps repairs from old moth damage? As the main are in the range of 2 by 2cm approx. There is an old repaired 'bite' in the upper border which is approx. 6 by 6cm and a couple of re-weaves of similar size. The total number of reweaves is perhaps 15 scattered throughout the rug. It has a very nice early weave. Rare design. very good looking and ready to display.
"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."

The present long rug has design traits that could be associated to both the Moghan region and also to Kuba. The field colours and central vertical row of guls are typical of the Moghan region. When initially catalogued in 1984 Herrmann cited Moghan as the region of origin due to these guls. However the border design is more typical, in turn, of early 19th century Kuba works, see the Thyssen-Bornemisza example, lot 9, and yet the weave is not as fine as you might expect from an earlier Kuba work; it is more reminiscent of Anatolian weavings. This is a very unusual example of what is, most likely, an early Moghan work.