Miniature Soumak Bag Face, Probably Shah Savan, Circa 1890
This style of medallion is seen in kilim rugs from both northwest Persia and the Caucasus. In this miniature soumak (brocade) technique bag face, a single medallion is complemented by small, randomly place geometric motifs on a denim blue field. The ivory star design border frames the field well. The extra interior guard border at the top gives this charming small piece additional character.
This Soumak bag face was probably woven in the Caucasus by the Shah Savan tribe, thought they were also active in weaving in northwest Persia. The primary medallion makes me at least wonder if it could have been produced by a Kurdish weaver.
