Lot 159

LORI PAMBAK RUG

Such impressive pieces were created in the picturesque and wide mountain valley of western Armenia and are characterized primarily by a jagged and gracefully stylized Christian cross, with both crosses in our case having a charming blue-green hue. The design of these carpets radiates a strong magnetism and stands out from many other Caucasian types with its seemingly simpler and clearer composition, yet nevertheless has an extraordinarily powerful effect on the viewer. The color palette of antique pieces is almost invariable, always dominated by the natural red color of the field, in which monumental blue or green medallions shine against a contrasting white background. In our example, the visual effect is further enhanced by a central dark blue polygon, the center of which is dominated by a motif called "scorpion," which is a powerful protective symbol. The iconography of the carpet suggests that it was made for a wedding by the bride's mother, as the design features numerous stylized female ornaments and many other auspicious motifs intended to bring good luck and ward off evil in any form. In this respect, too, it can be said that the significance of this authentic object, approximately 150 years old, is truly timeless and still corresponds to the most basic needs of human society today.