Antique Tribal Ersari Flatweave Rug

Large and decorative Turkoman tribal rug probably Turkmenistan, circa 1870. 
280 cm x 170 cm. (110 inch x 67 inch). Wool on wool with additional pattern forming wefts of Zilli weave in wool and silk. 

A lovely, strikingly modernist design picked out in bright silk threads over a flat woven ground of burgundy wool. Structurally very similar to a Jajim, being made from four woven strips joined together. Each strip comprises a bold central pattern of joined X-like motifs in pink, red, yellow, blue, green and white. This complex design creating a field of alternating white and yellow diamonds overall. At each side a densely woven, complex border gives the impression of brocade. On the right hand strip, the X pattern starts to dissipate as it comes to the bottom, breaking up the uniformity of the rest of the piece, a sophisticated touch that elevates the whole.

The textile is clean and in good original condition, with no repairs or restorations. Shows normal signs wear for a textile of this age. There are several small holes scattered throughout and some visible weft threads. Some areas where the silk on the X’s has worn to nothing (this is minimal and doesn’t disrupt the flow of the design). Overall presents extremely well, the wear being mainly visible if seen from the back, and held to the light.