BORDJALOU KAZAK, Southern Central Caucasian
4' 0" x 8' 4" Circa 1875 Price: $15,000
(Connoisseur-Caliber)
The elemental symbolism of the Caucasian tradition provides a magical, unique connection with life at its most basic. Here, a narrow field hosts four “Wheel of Life” motifs whose latch hooks are associated with the elemental dragon, an all-powerful, protective, celestial force heartily adopted from the Far East through contact along the Silk Roads. Two-tone diamonds are placed in charming contrast above and below. A subliminally satisfying sense of irregularity is induced through the purposeful non-symmetrical placement and drawing perfectly captures an effortless spontaneity that is sought after by savvy collectors. The softly animated double ram’s horns and improvised checker clusters appear to be adrift on the “waves” built by a dextrous hand in the buoyant marine blue background; this delightfully rustic piece profoundly captures a tribal ethos. A sensual 19th-century color palette of supporting hues introduces rich sea greens, ochre, and burnished gold. Dramatic fence of security borders morph in size and shape while enclosing an ivory main band of energetic “Wheels of Life” and triangular amulet motifs. This piece is in outstanding condition overall, as are the vast majority of the woven artworks found in the Great Lakes Collection. GLC rugs cannot be purchased using exchange credit.