Lot 132

A GENDJE RUG

Central Caucasus, Gendje region. A rare hand-knotted Caucasian wool carpet, created before the discovery of synthetic dyes, with a central and rare saffron-yellow field. The five octagons in the field are filled with a very dynamic and dramatic depiction of the tree of life, stylized as a dragon, which is understood as a celestial element and also as a protector of life. The triple border of the carpet, perhaps inspired by Karabakh, is quite impressive, while the middle border, essential for the overall effect on the viewer, is made of unpainted wool and with the so-called crab ornament, as the interconnected flowers resemble a crab. The wonderful ripening of the colors made of tubers, flowers, bark and shells is a very powerful reminder of the art of the old Caucasian masters.