WINDOW LEFT 

Fine Antique Finish Tabriz 8.9 x 12.1 Afghanistan

The exquisite, antique finish Tabriz displayed in WINDOW LEFT measures 8.9 x 12.1. This piece was finely hand-knotted in northern Afghanistan by four Turkmen women using handspun, vegetally dyed wool over a period of approximately eight months, followed by an antiquing process that would have taken approximately four weeks.

The inspiration for this intriguing carpet is Haji Jalili Tabrizes which are noted for their earth tones and nuanced designs. This lovely piece quietly engages the eye with a subtle palette of ivories, tans, browns and “just enough” blue to add interest and a touch of sweetness.

The gentle, playful vibe in the border creates a perfect balance to the intricate and fully engaging design in the main field. The main field exudes abundance, playful energy, and variety. The flowers include tulips representing prosperity, pomegranates representing fertility, lotus representing rebirth and blossoms representing youth and spring.

WINDOW RIGHT

Fine Afghan 8.9 x 12.1 Afghanistan

The classic fine Afghan displayed in WINDOW RIGHT measures 8.2 x 11.8. This carpet was hand-knotted in northern Afghanistan by 4 Turkmen women over a period of five to six months.

This fine Afghan has the definitive broad webbing at the ends and the large octagonal shaped figures placed in perpendicular rows.  The design is called “gul-I-gul”, flower with flower.  The palette consists of a rich red, deep navy, chestnut, pecan, and “just enough” ivory to accentuate the detailed and charming design.

The Light Side (with the nap) of the carpet radiates an orange hue.  If my feet are facing the carpet and I “rough up” the carpet as I bring my hand towards me, it is the side which the light reflects off, i.e. the Light Side(with the nap).  The Dark Side (into the nap) radiates a deep red hue.    If my feet are facing the carpet and I “pet” or “smooth” the carpet as I bring my hand towards me, it is the side that when looking into the carpet the light is absorbed, i.e. the Dark Side (into the nap).  It is also the side that as the weaver is tying the knot,  he/she cuts the wool in a downward motion creating the direction of the nap.

     “The rug itself symbolizes Eternity and Space, and the filling or plan is the symbol of the world–beautiful, but fleeting and limited.”  Rosa Bell Holt, Oriental and Occidental Rugs.

Resources:   The Decorative Carpet,  Alix G.  Perrachon, Oriental Rugs, Walter A. Hawley, & Oriental Rugs, John Kimberly Mumford