CIRCA: 1900 / early 1900’s
An Uzbek julkhyr* consisting of several vertical ‘panels’ or strips, individually warp-faced* woven on a long narrow loom, a technique that dates back centuries. After removal from the loom the panels were then stitched together to form the final piece. The rather minimalist design features repeating rows of traditional talismanic ‘diamonds’ of ivory, black, orange and blue dyed wool with undyed natural brown wool used in the overall base construction. These long-pile shaggy rugs were commonly made with only two warp-faced woven strips, however this piece is somewhat more elaborate and consists of four strips, the two wide center ones with the design, and two narrow dark blue ones for the borders. Made in Central Asia circa 1900 the size is 95cm x 278cm (approximately 37in x 109in), is of all wool construction and is in good condition.
* The word julkhry translates as ‘bear skin’ rug or ‘bear’ rug, so called because of its long shaggy pile.
**This type of weave leaves the design much less visible on the back side of the rug.