Antique Caucasian Marasali prayer rug of the scarce 'yellow' ground colour. www.knightsantiques.co.uk Circa 1850 or earlier. Size: 4ft 6in x 4ft 0in. (137 x 121cm). This outstanding rug belongs to a scarce group of yellow ground prayer rugs with a diamond lattice. Each diamond in the lattice contains a small flower or shrub arranged in such a way as to cause diagonal stripes within the overall design and in the mihrab a red and white diamond shape. The main border is of the classic Marasali bird design. The outer guard is of a floral rosette design. A closely related example is published in 'Oriental Rugs Volume 1 Caucasian' by Ian Bennett, plate 235, page 193. Another closely related example is published as part of, 'The Oriental Rug Collection of Jerome and Mary Jane Straka', item 104, page 108; gifted to the Textile Museum 1977.36.48. The rug is in excellent condition with even wear and medium pile. The rug has been hand washed and ready for use or display, the rug is suitable for light domestic use. This is a rare collectable rug that would make a superb wall hanging. Ref: h-519.