KARAJA, Northwest Persian
3' 8" x 4' 3" Circa 1900 Price: $3,000
(High-Decorative)
("New Arrivals Gallery") The mountainous terrain surrounding the village of Karaja inspired this vigorous, distinctive weaving style, drawing from Caucasian and Persian sources. With its symmetrically balanced, finely drawn array of joyful botanical motifs and naturally dyed palette, this antique, high-quality example gives full voice to the unique Karaja design vocabulary. This traditional format is boldly defined by a striking visual program beginning with a triple medallion suite with a mask-like sunburst as its centerpiece. Stylized leaf forms hang from all three medallions, thriving in their spirited interplay with one another. The cool, deep indigo field of this highly unique Karaja lends a harmonious balance to the handsome color palette. A rich rust red border is adorned with a lyrical ’Shah Abbas' design utilizing bright ivory accents that give a strong sense of balance and harmony. The dexterous use of a gentle abrash technique (intentional color shifts) is worth noting. These asymmetrical tonal shifts add a sense of depth and reflect natural beauty. This rug remains in robust, mostly heavier pile condition.