Early Melas Prayer Rug

158 x 111 cm (5' 2" x 3' 8")
Turkey, first half 19th century
Condition: very good for its age, low pile but not worn, corroded dark brown, minor small repairs
Published: "Anatolian Carpets from Four Centuries", Franz Bausback, 1978, p. 103 and "Weise Collection - Ambassadors from the Orient", Roland Weise, 2019, page 11
Warp: wool, weft: wool, pile: wool

An absolutely exemplary specimen of this popular group of prayer rugs. This widely published piece features tulips and carnations on a beautiful yellow-ground border, a style that was so popular among the Ottomans. Another green floral motif is visible, each outlined with a delicate red contour line. The weaver has playfully scattered secondary motifs across the sunny yellow background; only at the top has she chosen a more open version.
The classic red field of our rug is likely unique due to one detail: the second lower lateral indentation makes it appear like a rocket intended to ascend directly into paradise through prayers. In the white field above, floral motifs can be found, as we know them from the so-called Transylvanian rugs. The white outer border is also typical, whereas one of the inner secondary borders is rare. We do, however, find it twice in "Through the Collector's Eye," Rhode Island, 1991, No. 8.
The three depictions in the field have been interpreted either as cypresses or as botehs. In his text accompanying his collection, collector Roland Weise quite aptly calls them 'steppe candles'. The green 'steppe candle' at the bottom left seems to bend in the wind in such a way that it interrupts the row of small yellow flowers.
The rich colors, the harmonious design, and the excellent condition make this rug "the one to have."

Estimate: € 10000 - 15000