Quchan kurdish rug, second half 19th century

Measurements: 320cm x 183cm (10’6 x 6’)

60 Knots per inch

Price: £2,400

This type of rug is generally labelled as Quchan, other titles might be Khurusan Kurdish or Darreh Gaz, the latter I think being more precise although the former is more common. These labels are often part of the language that we use to communicate what something is rather than being accurate attributions. This is my favourite type of rug, an authentic tribal piece with rich colours and a host of motifs covering the surface. The main rectangular motifs are thought to be either garden designs of perhaps a rendition of the Kurdish abyss motif. Either way they float over the secondary ornaments giving great depth to the overall look. The myriad of other designs hold a lifetime of interest, it is definitely one of those magical rugs that you will see for the first time each day and notice new elements. The mutliple reciprocal borders are strong and were the first thing that caught my eye. I sometimes find it hard to describe the beauty of a rug, I become hypnotised by their complexity and intoxicated by their colour and design. This rug ticks every box in that respect, I think it is a truly wonderful example of the type.

Condition:

Some old repairs and some wear as to be expected of a rug with this age. The end does flare where it has been stretched to remove some wrinkles and there are still a few areas that are creased.