A SEYCHOUR LONG RUG, EAST CAUCASUS |

Herrmann. E. & Thompson. J., Von Konya Bis Kokand Seltene Orientteppiche, vol. III, Munich, 1988, pp. 61 & 89, no. 43

Overall measurements: 90cm across the top, 96cm across the bottom, 281cm the left hand side, 282cm the right hand side. Finely woven with even closely sheared pile, with even differentiation, with blue with pile of 1-2mm, yellows a little lower, and some knotbars visible, and dark browns oxidised with spot foundation visible. Colours in catalogue image are far too acidic, and the ground yellow is a lovely warm yellow ochre, and the white in border is less startling and more attractive in reality. Red in inner band is a good madder red, and red in field is slightly more chestnut shade. Good range of colour overall. Some old discolouration in the field, approximately 1/3 way up the right hand side, just visible in photograph. Outer right hand guard has two rewoven bites (13 by 6cm and 15.5cm by 6cm). Some minor localised repiling in some of browns, which is not extensive. Side cords are later overcast. Ends with losses to fringing and minor repair to lower edge. Rare design. Good age, lovely weave. Additional photographs are available from department on request.
"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 nomenclature for patterns in Oriental carpet art sometimes allows a deep insight into the creation of beautiful objects. Schürmann (1990), p. 288 mentions that the field design used here is called Khirdagyd. Etymologically it seems to be a series of three Farsi words: khir for well-being, dağ for darkness and giti for world or universe. Probably as an expression of eschatological geography: well-being in the (empire) of darkness (on the way) to the universe. The running dogs and the moon elevation motif in the border consequently mark the cosmical past, as borders generally do in traditional Oriental carpet art.” (EH)