Vintage Caucasian Kuba Rug: Wool Medallion, Animal Motifs

Sourced from the eastern Caucasus weaving tradition (Kuba–Shirvan group in today’s Azerbaijan), this compact tribal rug packs in everything collectors adore: two stacked latch-hook medallions, lively animal and bird figures in the corner spandrels, and the classic midnight-blue Lesghi-star main border. The palette—soft indigo, sky and cornflower blues, terracotta, camel, ivory and moss—shows beautiful abrash from hand-dyed yarns, giving the piece movement and depth. It’s a characterful accent for entryways, beside a bed, or layered in a study.

Weaving tradition & structure.
The back clearly shows symmetric knot rows and straight, squared backs—hallmarks of Caucasian village work. Warps and wefts are wool; edges are two-cord wool selvages with overcasting. The knotting is the Turkish/Ghiordes type, consistent with Kuba–Shirvan rugs, with a low, resilient pile sheared to ~3–4 mm for a crisp graphic look.

Design (naqsha) & symbolism.

Field with two linked octagonal/diamond medallions built from stepped “latch-hooks,” a protective motif meant to ward off the evil eye.

Four corner spandrels hold birds and quadrupeds (likely deer/horse and stylized peacocks), talismanic images for prosperity and watchfulness.

Medallion interiors and quadrant panels display tight, running pseudo-kufic/Greek-key meanders, a favorite filler in Shirvan workshops.

Main border is the signature Lesghi star on a deep navy ground, flanked by reciprocal sawtooth guards—both classic Caucasian border systems that “lock” the composition.

Attribution & age.
The combination of Lesghi-star border, stacked hooked medallions, animal vignettes in triangular panels, and the wool-on-wool build points to the Kuba–Shirvan area (eastern Caucasus). Dye shades and the overall condition suggest mid-20th century (c. 1950–1970) village production, woven on a narrow cottage loom.

Materials & dyes.
Hand-spun wool pile on wool foundation. The palette appears to use mostly natural dyes (indigo/iron-mordanted browns) with likely early synthetics for some brick and olive notes—typical of mid-century Caucasian rugs.

Pile & density.
Even, low pile around 3–4 mm. Estimated density 90–110 KPSI (140–170 kpsi per sq. decimeter) based on back inspection—fine for a tribal Caucasian mat, giving crisp outlines to the motifs.

Condition (honest).
Very good vintage condition: even pile with light age patina and abrash, secure selvages, and short original fringe with minor end wear typical for age. No holes; small, tidy old touch-ups are possible along one end (see photos). Recently dusted and ready to enjoy.

Features:

Origin: Eastern Caucasus, Kuba–Shirvan group (modern Azerbaijan)

Date: ca. 1950–1970

Type: Hand-knotted village rug

Knot: Symmetric (Turkish/Ghiordes)

Size: 103 × 90 cm (approx 3'5" × 2'11")

Pile: 100% hand-spun sheep’s wool, low ~3–4 mm

Foundation: Wool warps & wefts

Knot density: ~90–110 KPSI (estimate from back close-ups)

Colors: Indigo/navy, sky, terracotta, camel, ivory, moss/olive with natural abrash

Motifs: Double hooked medallions, Lesghi-star border, birds & animals, pseudo-kufic meanders

Condition: Very good vintage; even low pile, secure edges, minor end wear; clean and odor-free


Authentic Caucasian tribal graphics in a rare, room-friendly small size

Distinct animal & bird figures—great conversation starters and symbolic guardians

Wool-on-wool build = warm hand, excellent durability, and eco-friendly natural fibers

Versatile palette that works with modern, rustic, cottage, and eclectic interiors

Care instructions

Use a quality rug pad to prevent slip and extend life.

Vacuum weekly with suction only (no beater bar).

Rotate every 3–6 months for even wear and sun exposure.

Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth; avoid harsh cleaners.

Professionally hand-wash every 3–5 years (no steam cleaning).

Store rolled, face-in, with breathable wrapping if needed.

Bring home a piece of Caucasus weaving heritage—a compact tribal gem with life, history, and soul. If you’d like, I can record a short video in natural light or share styling mockups with your room measurements.