Caucasian Rugs & Carpets

The Caucasus region lies between the Black and Caspian Seas, a landscape of stark beauty and harsh contrasts marked by sharp mountain peaks and deep, rich valleys. A bridge between the Far East and Europe, the culture of the Caucasus region reflects a collision of many empires.

Geometric shapes, latch hook technique, and the Ghiordes knot (symmetrical weave) are some of the commonalities among Caucasian tribal rugs. Caucasian carpets called “Kazak” rugs are often small and may have originally been used in prayer. Other tribal rugs can be quite large, like the 17th century “Dragon Carpet” that measures 170 inches by 90 inches and currently resides in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Both soft and durable, Caucasian rugs feature mosaic designs incorporating simple figures, elaborate borders, striking colors, and a perfected geometry of forms including diamonds, crosses, hexagons, and hooks. Some well-known Caucasian rug styles come from the areas of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkestan.

Traditionally, Caucasian weavers created their art for personal use in the home. Rugs were used as floor coverings, wall hangings, and feast cloths. The finery was also displayed at weddings, funerals, and embellished religious rites. Emperors, kings, and sultans who ruled over tribes of the Caucasus sometimes demanded the exquisite pieces as part of a yearly tax.

Prior to the 1920s, Caucasian rugs were always woven at home with natural materials and dyes, making them more collectible. When much of the region was incorporated into the Soviet Union, factories were built for faster and more efficient production of this commodity.

Quick Facts

• Collectors can authenticate the region from which their rug originates by studying the color schemes, weaves, and motifs on their piece
• A Caucasian Verneh sold at Sotheby’s in New York for $10,625 in 2014