Early 19th Century Sauj Bulag - 4'7 x 8'3

This Sauj Bulagh rug was woven by Kurds during the early 19th century. Also known as Sauj Bulaq or even proto-kurdish these are very rare and collectible rugs that were woven around the city now known as Mahabad. They feature lustrous wool, saturated tones, and designs that often blend traditional Kurdish motifs with those from the classical Safavid era.  This example features two columns of various palmettes and is derived from the classical "Afshan" and "harshang" designs. One moment near the bottom of the composition the classic Afshan "arms" appear. In this case, they are reminiscent of confronting dragons with the small palmette between them a flaming pearl. The asymmetric patterning is both improvisational and well-balanced honoring the classic origins of the design as well as the independent nature of the Kurdish weavers. A wonderful array of tones including red, blue, green, purple, brown, and ivory sit atop a rare and desirable apricot ground. The exceptional green ranges from