19th Century Caucasian Shirvan Camel, Dark Blue and Orange Rug BB5356 2'9" × 4'0" $4,000

This circa-1880 antique Caucasian rug consists of an all-over design featuring stylized vignettes of camels and castles in bold orange, yellow and red colors, complete with geometric abstractions against a field of dark blue evocative of a night sky. Located to the south of the Caucasus mountain range, the Shirvan district had a local weaving tradition that focused on exploring numerous color variations using a limited palette to maximal effect. The area antique kilim rugs and a limited supply of antique runners woven in the Shirvan district are considered to be some of the most finely-knotted and sophisticated antique rugs of the Caucasus region. As a result of European demand, Shirvan rug design in the late 19th century initially became more intricate, with increasingly fine weaves and knots. The establishment of weaving workshops led to a simplification of design and more focus on the symmetrical.