Antique Kuba long rug. Dated 1.904 (ah 1322), 375 x 135cm ( 101,5”x 66”). caucasian This carpet features the appealing “Keyhole Design”. Two of the so-called ‘carnation’ borders, typical of the region, delimit the primary ivory-colored border with ‘cup and leaf’ ornaments that gives this imposing rug a contrasting frame. The prominent motif is the sequence of five medallions, alternately colored in ivory and deep purplish red. The interior is delicately rendered with carefully chosen colors depending on the backgrounds. When examining the connections between the medallions, we see that three of them have a ‘tree of life’ with its trunk decorated in diagonal colored segments, from where branches emerge that end in multicolored buds. But in the link between the second medallion from the bottom with the central one, this motif is replaced by a plain line with fine dotted branches. In the upper part, the weaver adds three additional cruciform motifs. Next to the lower medallion, the weaver signs her work with two small female figures. Very good condition, even good pile all around. Some minor fading. Complete with original characteristic twisted fringes. This rug was published in the book “ Rugs & Art”, Hali pl, London 2017, Plate 139, Pages 246 and 247.