Kuba rug, circa 1900

Measurements: 122cm x 91cm (4’ x 3’)

120 Knots per inch

Price: £60

This is actually quite a finely knotted piece but unfortunately it is in poor condition and has been relegated to my bargain basement, there are treasues to be found here. Kuba rugs are very similar to Shirvan and Daghestan pieces and I don’t confess to being an expert in this field. A ribbed back is normally an indication of Daghestan or Kuba and I place this as a Kuba based on seeing many Chi Chi rugs with the same palette and weave. The purple is fuchsine, one of the very first synthetic dyes that faded to a beige. This was replaced later with better synthetic dyes which does help us place it around 1900. Despite its wear it has some interest with a number of birds and stylised boteh surrounding the dominant hexagons. Note the two different swastikas facing each way, one representing the sun and the other night. This ancient symbol appears in many cultures across the world. A very affordable rug with an archaic look.

Condition:

Very poor condition, overall wear and the edges and ends are frayed.