GHARABAGH or KARABAKH

The rugs known by this name come from the Nagorno Karabakh region (the high black garden) located in southern Azerbaijan, where the population is predominantly Armenian. Rug-making in this area has very old, deep roots, and over the centuries has felt the impact of the influences of Persia and other Caucasian regions. Therefore, Karabakh rugs are quite heterogeneous. Some are decorated with geometric designs similar to those of Caucasian provenance, while others (most certainly the most original) are inspired by western tastes. They are modelled after the floral motifs on the French Aubusson rugs which are reinterpreted according to Oriental tastes. Naturally, this radically changes the format with original patterns and boldly contrasting colours, with bright, lively shades. There are some figured rugs depicting various characters, and these too are often of French inspiration. As to workmanship, the Karabakh rugs can have either a wool or cotton warp, while the good quality wool pile has a limited density of knots.