SOUMAK
Southern Caucasian Antique Carpet

(High-Collectible) Instead of hand-knotting, the design of this enthralling room-size Caucasian masterwork was created using the mind-boggling Soumak embroidery technique. Three perfectly aligned mandala medallions set the stage for a smorgasbord of ebullient motifs. Each is imbued with crystal clear definition, emblazoned across a rich vermilion ground softly rippled with color striations known as abrash. Lozenges in buoyant azure blue are filled with eccentric polygons, alternating with horizontal stupas that appear to be inscribed with an archaic script. Rarely have we seen such exotic, vibrant colors coupled with such a remarkable state of preservation. Adding to its collectibility and captivating thematic unity are a mesmerizing series of borders. Intriguing Mesopotamian temple shapes adorn the teak-hued main band, divided by a bold speckled zig-zag that could represent a waterway. Sparkling secondary borders feature motifs that originated in the ancient world, including the powerful "running dog" at the edge.

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