Uzbek Rug, Khiva Region (possibly Karakalpak), 19th c., 4'10" x 10 2"
| Weavings of this type are commonly attributed to the Karakalpak, an Uzbek group inhabiting regions of Central Asia, including the environs of Khiva. Khiva was an Uzbek khanate of some importance, where the Uzbek khans maintained control over a number of different tribal groups including Chodor Turkmen, Yomud Turkmen, Kirghiz and Uzbeks.
Rugs of this type were undoubtedly made within a tribal but urban or sedentary environment, given the size of the rug. The design is one associated with several non Turkmen weaving groups including Kazakh and Uzbek. The palette, though, is the most distinguishing feature in terms of assigning the provenance to Khiva. The liver colored augergine ground color is the key here. The condition is good, though there are re-woven ends at both ends, full pile throughout and original sides. |
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