Vintage Caucasian Runner Rug – Hand-Knotted Wool, Floral Medallions

A striking vintage Caucasian village runner woven by tribal artisans, this piece features four bold hexagonal medallions on a glowing red field framed by flower-laden borders. Finely hand-knotted in durable wool with natural and early aniline dyes, it captures the timeless geometry and exuberant color that define the mountain weaving tradition.


Weaving tradition & structure. Close-up views reveal tight, symmetrical knotting on a cotton warp with a firm handle—hallmarks of Eastern Caucasian weaving (likely Kazak or Karabagh region). The back shows neat horizontal wefts and compact rows, confirming Turkish/Ghiordes knots. The short, dense pile and crisp outlines attest to village-loom craftsmanship from the mid-20th century.

Field & motifs. The central axis displays four linked octa-hexagonal medallions—each enclosing a stylized floral rosette flanked by stepped hooks symbolizing protection and unity. Small cross-forms float between medallions, often read as amulets warding off evil. The orange outlining adds depth and energy, making the design both symmetrical and dynamic.

Borders & naqsha (design logic). A luminous main border of stylized leaf-and-bud motifs alternates in saffron, ivory, plum, and green—echoing fertility and growth. Guard stripes of tiny triangles and blossoms frame the core, balancing the strong red field. The bottom corner’s stepped “mountain” motif, rendered in pink-lavender abrash, is a known weaver’s signature variation in many Caucasian tribal pieces.

Materials & dyes. Soft hand-spun wool pile on a cotton foundation. The palette—madder red, golden ochre, ivory, plum, green, and charcoal—derives mainly from natural and early synthetic dyes (c. 1950s–1970s period). The sheen suggests high-quality local wool with tight spinning and fine lanolin content.

Age & condition. Estimated circa 1960s. The pile is medium-low and even, with gentle fade at one end and minor corner wear visible in photos—no holes or modern repairs. Clean, well-preserved, and ready to use.

Features:

Type: Hand-knotted Caucasian tribal runner

Size : 355 cm × 114 cm (11’8” × 3’9”)

Knot type: Symmetrical (Ghiordes)

Estimated density: ~90–110 KPSI

Pile: 100% wool

Warp/Weft: Cotton

Palette: Red, orange, ivory, gold, plum, green, black

Design: Four hexagonal medallions with floral rosettes

Age Vintage (mid-20th century)

Condition: Very good vintage; minor fringe and corner wear

Authentic tribal Caucasian runner with rare four-medallion layout

Durable hand-knotted wool ideal for high-traffic areas

Balanced geometry and natural color harmony

Subtle abrash adds depth and character

Clean, professionally inspected, ready to lay or hang

Care instructions

Place on a non-slip rug pad.

Vacuum gently with suction only; avoid beater bar.

Rotate seasonally for even exposure.

Spot-clean spills promptly using cool water and mild wool soap.

For full washing, use a professional hand-wash rug service.

Keep out of prolonged direct sunlight to preserve natural dyes.

Styling suggestions

Its long, narrow format makes it perfect for hallways, kitchens, or entryways. The vivid palette enlivens bohemian, eclectic, rustic, or contemporary interiors. Hung vertically, it becomes a bold art textile statement celebrating color and craftsmanship.




This luminous runner embodies the spirit of Caucasian village weaving—bold, honest, and enduring. Its colors and geometry bring warmth and movement to any space. A true one-of-a-kind piece for collectors who appreciate cultural authenticity and timeless design.