Sewan – Kazak, Central Caucasus

Long prized by experts, Sewans like this one, are produced near Lake Sewan, high in the Caucasus Mountains. This sublime rug demonstrates the aesthetics of a tradition full of countless secular symbols. Elegant and intense, each Caucasian rug from this area is a unique expression of the weaver’s artistic choices. They use designs that are part of a traditional repertoire often transmitted by the clan to which they belong but are incorporated freely as the artists see fit. Geometric motifs are usually arranged spontaneously and do not appear to follow an obligatory pattern. Although these rugs generally have a high degree of precision in design, they reflect the artist’s experience and skill level. As much respect and recognition as the words imply, this rug does not need adjectives.

The light-green ground is a rare Caucasian colour, and the Sewan shield design is the most valued Kazak subtype after the Eagle Kazak.