Lot 129

ANTIQUE CAUCASUS "CHAJLÍ" RUG

A carpet from the Eastern Caucasus (modern-day Azerbaijan) – the Shirvan region, near the village of Khaili. Hand-knotted wool on a wool warp. One of the classic designs (from this exceptionally prolific region) in a rather unusual variation, dominated by three large, differently colored octagonal medallions. These are depicted along with a single incomplete upper medallion, as if forcibly cut off at the top, yet clearly demonstrating the free interpretation of composition in the creation of Oriental carpets, whose design is considered an endless series of images continuing, for example, even beneath the border as well as beyond the carpet’s edges. Among the multi-layered symbolism in the form of stars, rosettes, magic eyes, and the like, the most intriguing are the almost obscure shapes resembling bizarre headless four-legged figures; however, these are likely a geometric combination of ram’s horns (a popular symbol of masculinity and fertility) and so-called protective hooks.