Antique Kuba rug, second half 19th century, Konagkend District, possibly Afurja village, Mountainous Kuba Region, North East Azerbaijan.

55 Afurja
Konakhkend district, 220 X 125 cm
Around 1870

The midnight-blue central field comprises fifteen stepped medallions (göls) with four corners. These are arranged either staggered as single medallions on a vertical axis or alternating in pairs on a horizontal axis. Six rows are ornamented. The single medallions are symmetrically framed by geometrical vines. Above each of the lower vines, rams are woven in: six animals altogether. The ram was venerated in Azerbaijan, and its horns have been a symbol of courage since ancient times. Its energetic leaping and dexterity are legendary, and it has always been the leader of the flock. Furthermore, it is one of the signs of the zodiac. Stars, rosettes, lozenges etc. make up the remaining ornamentation. The main border on a red ground is the shami border which is frequently used. Two blue-ground minor carnation borders surround the main border. This variety of stepped medallions is characteristic of the village of Afurja.

Warp: Wool,Z3 S, dark brown mixed, 2 X dark brown + 1 X ivory.
Weft: Wool + Cotton, Z3 (2 X Wool, ivory, 1 X Cotton. white),2 wefts: lst light, 2nd waved.
Pile: Wool, Z2-4 (also Z3 red, ivory and blue), Pile Height: 5 mm.
Knots: Symmetrical 3, \25◦,H40 x V30 = 1.200 Kn/dm2.
Handle: Velvety, not thin, extremely lightly ribbed.
Upper end: c. 2 cm light cotton +wool simple tapestry weave, warp-threads knotted in small groups.
Selvedge: Thin, round, light wool shirazi.
Remarks: This is a great carpet of first-class quality wool, colours and knotting. Literature: L Kerimov II, ill. 153, p. 187; from the collection of the Museum of Oriental Culture in Moscow; dated 1277 -1860.

published at Siyawouch Azadi "Azerbaijani Caucasian rugs" plate no: 55