Shirvan Marasali Prayer Rug

1866

A Shirvan Marasali prayer rug (Caucasian, 1866) of an exceptionally fine weave. The rug is decorated with a trellis pattern enclosing flowering plants with a simple blue arch (prayer niche) at the upper end of its ivory field. This design was common to many rugs made in the Shirvan region of the eastern Caucasus, but this rug is notable for its deliberately varied floral patterning. The Muslim date of 1283 (1866 A.D.) has been inscribed by the weaver above the prayer niche. The ends are embellished with unusual, brocaded bands.

Caucasian

wool pile on a wool and cotton foundation

55" x 45"

Gift of the Estate of Gwendolen Ella Rives.

PSNC.5916