19th Century Early Caucasian Tree of Life Kazak

An ancient symbol in Urartu (the ancient proto-Armenian kingdom), the tree of life is often found in older Armenian rugs, drawn onto the exterior walls of fortresses, and carved onto the armor of warriors. An ancient mythological figure, the tree of life is associated with themes of immortality and continuity. Usually being drawn in symmetrical fashion with opposing trees with equal numbers of branches, it is also a religious symbol for dualism.

Vibrant cochineal-red color gleams out of the tree-of-life Kazak. The field is decorated with angular stylized trees on either end of a latticed branch pattern; one of pastel-olive and the other of cobalt-blue. A pair of ivory calyx-and-leaf border guards are on either end of a cochineal-red tribal motif designed main border. The polychrome colors throughout the field and border accentuate the carpet’s red color in a tranquil manner.

Kept in near pristine condition throughout all these years, the carpet still maintains its high pile and original kilim on its end. The bright cochineal red background makes for an eye-catching carpet. Woven in a very large size, the carpet has all the elements for making it an important collector’s item.