Object Description
A richly coloured tribal antique Shashavan runner woven in the late 19th century with gorgeous natural dyes and a lovely variation of indigo blues. We see the obvious changes to the blue background which is known as ‘abrash’ a term for dye change. These tribal weavers from the northeastern Persia in the mountainous area. This area was home to a smaller group of tribal weavers and these diverse weavings were based on vivid geometric designs usually with medallions repeating throughout such as this piece. The Turkish memling gul is often found on these pieces and we can see other Caucasian rug attributes such as the glorious ‘Genje’ striped border which is full of rainbow colours!
Condition is extremely good, with a soft wool pile typical of these floppy to handle tribal weavings. Some small areas of old restoration, in general it is in lovely original condition and ideal for a hall or landing. We have secured the ends/fringes to prevent losses and the sides too.
Shashavan runners are sometimes known as Southern Caucasian rugs but maybe this is due to their close proximity to the Caucasus. Historians claim the Shah Abbas Safavid (1587-1629) formed this tribe to defend western frontiers against Turkish tribes, hence how the Shah was used to form this nomad tribe.
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