Akstafa prayer rug, circa 1900

Measurements: 185cm x 98cm (6’1 × 3’3)

72 Knots per inch

Price: £580

Akstafa prayer rugs aren’t that common so I was very happy to come across this piece. The border is classic Akstafa and the central field with an allover lattice design is seen on many rugs from the Caucasus. The colours are perhaps more muted than the 19th century examples but it still has a great look. The mihrab shows a comb with an assortment of smaller motifs filling the rest of the void, whilst the outside has two trees flanked by birds. The serrated lattice design picked out in a range of soft colours has a hypnotic effect and elements of it pop out of the surface while others retreat below. This is a rare piece and a welcome addition to my collection.

Condition:

Quite a lot of old moth damage. The ends have some loss and the sides have been overcast and repaired in places. There is a tear that has been secured on one side. The price reflects these issues.