Karabagh prayer rug, late 19th century

Measurements: 159cm x 74cm (5’3 x 2’5)

56 Knots per inch

Price: £280

A gem of a little prayer rug at an affordable price. Note how the central field with its layers of hooked diamonds appears to sink down below the borders and prayer mihrab. The crudely drawn mihrab is decorated and surrounded by small floral motifs on red and blue, a simple but effective contrast in colour. I wonder what the weaver was thinking when they included the strange array of shapes at the bottom of the field, mishapen boteh or just random decoration morph into the beginning of the main field. I love these inconsistencies, they add interest and humour to a rug. One can buy a genuine antique rug that is interesting and beautiful for less than £300 if the compromise on condition can be met.

Condition:

Very low pile in the middle section with foundation showing in places. Some wear creases in other sections and small holes.