First half 19th century, 87 x 143 cm, Central Asia, middle Amu Darya region

A early Ersari chuval woven in a rare design. An oversized hexagonal gül resembling an ornamental plate takes up the entire centre of the field, flanked by two analogous güls which are cut and halved by the border. The few surviving examples of this group are broadly similar, including their border designs. They were probably woven in the first half of the 19th century. The rich range of brilliant colours can be taken as an indication of an early date. – Slightly reduced all around, signs of age and wear, the back is missing.

LOGES, WERNER, Turkmenische Teppiche. Munich 1978, no. 102 *** REUBEN, DAVID M., Gols And Guls I. Exhibition Of Turkmen Carpets From The 18th And 19th Centuries. London 1998, no. 43 *** RIPPON BOSWELL, A 51, 15th May 1999, # 157