Shirvan Pictorial Prayer  rug, "Hunters"
CODE: SHRHT0907
Size (metric):134x151cm
Size (ft): 4'4"x4'11"
Area: 2.02 m²
Density: 165 000 knots per square meter, totally ~330 000 knots
Weaving period: three months

Colors (13): red, cerulean blue, old purple/mauve, midnight blue, medium blue, light yellow, green, maroon, ivory, dark brown.

Dyes: 100% natural dyes: madder, weld (Reseda Luteola), indigo, pomegranate skins, natural brown sheep wool (undyed), natural ivory sheep wool (undyed)
Materials: Handcarded and handspun wool for pile, grey wool warps and wool wefts
Handwoven in Azerbaijan, signed and dated ("Shirvan", "Ovchular" & and 1438)
Weaver's name: Sadaqat

Knots: Gördes (Turkish, symmetrical)
Pile height: 0.5cm
Ends: five rows of decorative knotted meshwork

Design: The main focus of this striking rug is the three figures of elaborately attired warriors astride large horses, which are equally elegantly decorated. The rug also features a profusion of animals, deer and a few birds both above and below the prayer arch. There is only one antique Marasali prayer rug with this design, no known analogies in rug literature except for a vaguely related example with a large horse and rider as a centrepiece. Particular attention should be paid to details such as the riders' costumes and saddle covers. signed "AH 1438 (2017)" and "Ovchular" (Hunters)

A mounted hunter or a warrior