Eastern European Polonaise kilim
Pirot, Serbia, c1900s.
12'9” x 9'10” : 390cm x 300cm
Numerous varieties of flat tapestry woven rugs were traditionally produced in Pirot, a town in southeastern Serbia, where the history of weaving goes back to the 17th century. Nearly all are of Caucasian and Anatolian influenced geometric designs in colouring of reds and blues, these are of little interest and are encountered frequently. The present example with a rare design after the Polonaise carpets from 17t century Safavid Persia, is another matter.
Most Eastern European kilims from this period have been excessively restored or the colours have faded, the present example is in good condition and retains original colour, consisting of a rare combination in shades of grey, cinnamon and on an old bone-white field. A further note is the large size as most Pirot kilims are made as small rugs for specific use in domestic humble dwellings. This exceptional kilim with a rare classical design and unusual colour combination enables it be placed in either a traditional or a modern design setting.
