Mihalic rug, second half 19th century

Measurements: 137cm x 86cm (4’6 x 2’10)

42 Knots per inch

Price: £2,200

A rare and beautiful rug. These cottage industry pieces made in the western end of central Anatolia are hard to find and often in poor condition probably due to their soft woollen foundation. I would say this piece must have had some expert restoration during its life to be in this condition, good things are cared for and this is why in the main only the best things survive from the 19th century and beyond. I could run out of superlatives describing this rug. The range of colours is something to behold, each one a jewel with the pure white background showing them off beautifully. The central red field holds four rich rosettes flanked by two columns with a spiral of diamonds. The floral spray at top and bottom reminiscent of the flowers seen on the borders of Kula rugs. The wool is soft and the rug is very floppy. I could go on but I think the pictures say enough, a very attractive and collectable piece.

Condition:

Very good condition, as stated above there must have been some expert restoration during its life.