Antique Caucasian Kazak Runner with Shirvan-Style Boteh Field
A rare, extra-long wool-on-wool runner with rhythmic paisley drawing and saturated village color.
This 19th-century Caucasian Kazak runner has a wonderfully distinctive allover boteh field, drawn in a highly geometric village manner that gives the classic paisley motif a crisp, architectural rhythm, something we more often see in Shirvan rugs from the Caucasus. Set against a deep indigo ground, the botehs repeat in tight rows and shift subtly in color through ivory, coral, soft pink, teal, olive, and sky blue, creating that lively mosaic effect you only get in old Caucasian weavings.
The borders are just as strong: a bold coral main border with angular meander forms, paired with striking reciprocal and serrated elements in blue, ivory, terracotta, and olive. The result is graphic and jewel-like at the same time, with that unmistakable Caucasian energy.
What makes this piece especially compelling is its length and its vibrant, lustrous dyes. At roughly 4 by 14 feet, it has real architectural presence, ideal for a long hallway, gallery-like passage, generous entry, or even a large kitchen where a rug with character can completely transform the space.
Woven in wool pile on a wool foundation, it has the low pile and honest surface wear you would hope to see in an antique of this period. This is the kind of piece for someone who loves antique rugs with strong drawing, old color, and a surface that tells the truth about age.
- Origin: Caucasus
- Age: Late 19th century
- Material: Wool pile on wool foundation
- Dimensions: 4’ 4” x 13’ 9” (133 x 420 cm)
- Condition: Low pile showing its age. Edges are securely reinforced. Minor restoration. Please check the image. I pointed it out.
