Antique Flatwoven Caucasian Sumak
- Size:3.16cm x 2.26cm
- 100% handspun Wool
- Age: Antique - late 19th C
- Excellent natural vegetable dyes
- Condition : Even wear throughout. Best purchased for a quieter, less traffic area.
- Price includes international shipping and insurance
The term Soumak is said to have derived from the Caucasian town of Shemakha, where very fine brocade weft wrapped Kilims have been woven for centuries. The finest Soumak kilims come from the Caucasus, where orıgınal patterns are often passed down within the community from one generation to the next and can be traced to designs used in the 15 th century. Kilims woven in the Soumak technique are considered to be very hard wearing and heavy, and often display the finest workwomanship.
The area known as the Caucasus spreads through the states of Azerbaijan, Daghestan, Armenia and Georgia and covers a complex ethnic and cultural mix. Caucasian weavers produce excellent, fine weavings in both flatweave and knotted pile techniqes. Both the carpets, Kilims and Sumaks woven in these areas are well sought after by collectors not only for the lustrous quality of wool, but also for the creative use of bright and clear dyes and the range of high quality techniques. Large Caucasian soumak rugs are amongst the most grand and distinguished of all flatweaves. Used as major floor coverings, they are seldom found in small sizes. Caucasian soumaks often have three central medallions, with many small, interesting, and highly detailed filler motifs. There are numerous borders, the outer one often showing the hooked 'running dog' motif. Colours are predominanly rich reds, blues,terra-cottas, with regional variances including oranges and occasionally pinks.Well drawn and relatively finely composed examples are still being made today. However, there has been a significant increase in synthetic dyes in recent years, often resulting in a strident contrasting palette.
Our vintage pieces are all preloved and due to the age and/or handmade nature of these items, minor signs of patination, fading, wear, or slightly unsymmetrical lines may be present. These are not considered flaws, they are part of their unique nature and why we love using them in our homes, as they add both character and charm.
