2 x 14 Antique Caucasian Shirvan Rug 72223

72223 Antique Caucasian Shirvan Rug Runner, 02'03 x 13'09.

This hand-knotted wool antique Caucasian Shirvan rug runner, dating back to the Late 19th Century, is a captivating tableau of intricate symbolism and tribal artistry. The Caucasian rug's elongated form is adorned with a series of hexagon-shaped medallions, each filled with star-cross motifs and delicate rosettes, serving as the focal points against the rich golden-tan field. These medallions, flanked by a variety of smaller motifs, are interspersed with stylized flora and fauna, narrating a story deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Shirvan weavers. Each motif is more than just a decorative element; it represents the weaver’s belief system, aspirations, and a connection to the natural world. 

The field of this enchanting runner is a visual symphony of motifs, each imbued with its own meaning. The Tree of Life motifs, standing tall and proud throughout the field, symbolize eternal life, growth, and the continuation of generations. Scattered among these trees are small animal motifs, representing the nomadic lifestyle of the Caucasian tribes and their reverence for the animals that sustained them. Further enhancing the field are angular flowers, rosettes, and pinwheels, all meticulously woven to express themes of beauty, protection, and the cyclical nature of existence. Each shape and symbol reflects a moment of thought, memory, or hope of the weaver, transforming this rug into a woven testament of lived experiences and cultural wisdom.

The main tribal border of the runner is equally compelling, serving as protective frames for the central narrative, a common protective symbol used to ward off the evil eye. Together, these esoteric motifs form a powerful protective barrier around the central field, reinforcing the belief that beauty and strength lie in the details.

This antique Shirvan runner is more than a work of art; it is a historical canvas that bridges past and present. Woven by skilled hands over a century ago, it carries within its knots the spirit of the Shirvan region, a place known for its fine rugs and deep-rooted weaving traditions. The interplay of color—rich reds, soft beige, and muted golds—combined with the precision of each motif, showcases the weaver’s mastery and creative vision. Whether displayed in a grand hallway or an intimate space, this Shirvan rug is sure to infuse any setting with a sense of heritage, artistry, and the enduring allure of Caucasian craftsmanship.

• Abrash.
• Hand-knotted wool.
• Made in Caucasus Region (Old Russia).
• Measures: 02'03 x 13'09.
• Date: 1890's. Late 19th Century.