A Guide to Caucasian Rugs
Feb 22
Caucasian rugs have a distinctive style and are available in antique and modern versions. These rugs are made with either Giordes or Turkish knots. They are traditionally made of wool, and the colours used reflect the natural materials found in the area where the rug was made.
The warp threads used to make Caucasian rugs may be made from goat hair. In some cases, they are made of undyed yarn in one area and a different, dyed colour in another. The weft threads may be made of different colours, including white, a rusty red/brown or blue.
These types of rugs are available in a number of distinct styles. Each region has its own distinct colours and patterns. The following are some examples of Caucasian rugs:
Akstafa rugs
These rugs are made in the north-western part of Azerbaijan. A common pattern used in Akstafa rugs is a type of bird that has a peacock’s tail and a long neck. The bird’s bottom has a jagged appearance, very similar to the teeth on a handsaw. Natural tones of the peacocks tail are also used in these duck egg blue rugs.
Avar rugs
The Avar rug is named after the tribe of people who make them. This type of rug is characterized by a number of rows of stepped polygons and a border featuring diagonal stripes. The warp and weft threads are either light or mingled with light brown yarn.
Bordjalou rugs
Bordjalou is a town where Kazak rugs are produced. Rugs produced in this region feature octagon designs with latch hook edges. Borders are used to finish off the rugs’ design and can include an arrow or running dog motif. The warp is a light colour, while the weft threads are made from a rusty red colour.
Cheleberd rugs
The distinguishing design used to make Cheleberd rugs is a flaming cross that is sometimes identified as the “Eagle Claw Kazak” or the “Sunburst Kazak.” Other common designs used to make these rugs include crab garlands and a fishbone motif. Small animal and human figures may be woven into the rug, and these are indications that the piece was made as a wedding gift. The red dye used to make the rug is derived from the madder root, and this shade is only used by weavers in the Karabagh district to make rugs.
Karagashli rugs
Karagashli rugs are usually made of bright colours on dark fields. The design may feature crosses, but figures of mystical animals are used more often. These densely knotted rugs are highly prized by collectors. They can come as patterned or unpatterned rugs.
Marasali rugs
Marasali are high-quality prayer rugs featuring one of several border designs. The warps can be made of light yarn, and the wefts are fashioned of various colours.
The styles of Caucasian rugs listed here are a few examples of the styles of floor coverings available from this region of the world. The patterns produced by weavers feature highly detailed designs and bright colours. Due to the richness of the Caucasian rugs’ designs, they should be considered for rooms where they can be the focal point to show off their beauty.

