About the Rug

Finely woven Soumak silk-on-wool rug. Design elements include three stylized medallions flanked by various animals, including birds, camels, horses and deer on a cream ground. Circa second quarter of 20th-century. Very good condition. No discernible repairs, damage, or losses.

Characteristics of the rug offered are consistent with antique Soumaks, which are generally very finely woven and feature richly detailed motifs. These early rugs are typically silk-on-wool or wool-on-wool. More contemporary rugs, which are the variety most commonly encountered today, are of considerably lesser quality and typically wool-on-cotton.

Like the rug offered, Soumak rugs are traditionally decorated with ancient symbols, tiny birds and geometric animals. Many of these geometric patterns and tribal symbols are associated with the nomadic Shahsavan tribe in north-western Iran and adjoining region.

Soumak (also spelled Soumakh, Sumak, Sumac, or Soumac) is a tapestry technique for weaving strong and decorative textiles used as rugs and bags. The weaving technique produces a flat-weave rug that is thick, strong and exceptionally durable. Unlike kilims, Soumak rugs are not reversible because yarn strands are left unclipped on reverse. They are desired for being stronger than kilims.

Packaging and Shipping

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Sales tax

Items shipped or delivered to a Nevada address will include applicable sales tax on the purchase invoice.