Large Ersari Turkmen main carpet, Central Asia, Middle Amu-Darya valley, mid-19th century, 444 x 190 cm. The pattern shows a very rare gül, which to the best of our knowledge can be found only in two other very similar examples. One was published in an old book by Hartley Clark, "Bokhara, Turkoman and Afghan Rugs"(1922) and the other is the renowned Textile Museum catalog : "Turkmen.Tribal Carpets and Tradition" Edited by J.Thompson and L.Mackie, Washington d.c: 1980, no. 92. page 182. Jon Thompson attributed that example to Bukhara, as such large dimensions are more suitable for a town house than for a tribal tent. The carpet is in fair condition with few old repairs and it is very slightly worn in places.