Chichi rug

Chichi rugs from the Caucasus may be identified by their distinct main border of rosettes and diagonally oriented cartouches linked together in a repeat, often against a dark brown ground. This formation seems to be a local reinterpretation of more blatantly vegetal Persian vine scroll types. This Chichi prayer rug draws a small field with a geometric ‘mihrab’ niche within an expanse of intricate borders. Rows of geometric motif, derived from classical weaving from centuries earlier, are drawn against the indigo blue ground. The piece is dated 1263, corresponding to the Western year 1846, though this may be a commemorative date.