Carpet Shikhli

Carpet Shikhli. Gazakh, Azerbaijan. Early 20th century. Wool. Pile, handmade. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum collection
 
This Shikhli carpet of Gazakh, one of the most famous examples of this region now on display at the exhibition Carpet Art. Evolution of Meanings in the Kazan Kremlin, the Manege exhibition hall. 
 
The carpet is woven in the village of Shikhli, located on the banks of the Kura River, about 30 km from the city of Gazakh, and has several compositions. They differ in artistic design and belong to the oldest carpets of the Gazakh group.
 
The central field of the carpet is in the form of a mehrabli caravanserai with an elongated central medallion inside. Tughbashi elements and various geometric patterns adorn the medallion. Tree-like images, decorative animals, and other patterns embellish the corners and space along the central field. 
 
Exhibition runs until 5 September.