Object Description
The Ersari tribe of Central Asia, residing in Southern Turkmenistan and Northern Afghanistan, have a long and rich history in the world of antique rugs. Their weavings are widely appreciated for their quality, rich palettes, and their distinctive stamped ‘elephant’s foot’ patterns, making them charming, durable pieces, known as among the highest category of carpets from this region. These pieces can suit a classic interior, but in our experience, can also be a wonderful choice to contrast with a more contemporary look.
This wonderful Ersari carpet, dating to the turn of the last century, is a fine example, with lustrous wool and a fine weave, giving a crisp clarity to its drawing. Being an early piece, it not only has better quality wool, but its pattern is simpler and more naive in comparison to later examples, and the vegetable dyes used have taken on a beautiful age-related patina lending a natural colour variation (abrash) to its muted terracotta field and border, adding a real sense of depth and great richness to the simple drawing.
It is in very good condition, still retaining all original four borders and kilim fringes at both ends; remarkable for a rug of this age, with slight are-related wear in some areas.
A classic example, with a tribal charm which would suit a wide variety of settings.