A GHIORDES NICHE RUG, WEST ANATOLIA |

Overall measurements: 134cm across the top, 131cm across the bottom, 184cm the left hand side, 184cm the right hand side. Pile low, even, approximately 1mm. Dark browns extensively corroded. Crimson reds partially corroded. Some old spotting in the field. Some cobbling and re-piling to the right hand side of the upper spandrel. Some spot re-piling scattered elsewhere. Ends with cotton binding tape stitched to reverse. Sidecords later. Probably benefit from a professional clean. Warp fringing at each end. Unusual colour mihrab. A very pretty palette overall with unusual chequered border.
"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."

A particularly attractive example of the group, the pistachio green ground and chequerboard main border both unusual. There is a similar example in the MAK, Vienna, exhibiting this ground colour and other elements such as the two panels at each end, but with differing border and lacking the charming blue spandrels above the mihrab, Völker (2001), Vienna, pp. 146 & 147, pl. 46.  Völker (2001): Völker, A., Die orientalischen Knüpfteppiche im MAK, 2001, Vienna, pp. 146 & 147, pl. 46.