An exceptional museum grade antique Uzbek silk velvet / Bakhmal Ikat fragment dating to the mid 19th century Bukhara. Silk velvet Ikats are some of the most coveted of all Central Asian Ikats. The complex weaving process of the fabrics meant only the noble and aristocratic families could afford to buy them and make robes or hangings from them and they were valued as much as gold. This is one of the earliest examples of the genre. The design is outstanding and unique compared to common examples one sees. The natural dyed colours are exceptional consisting of contrasting primary colours red, blue, yellow, green and aubergine. It is mounted on a red fabric ready to be stretched. a piece worthy of any great collection which would look great on the wall as a textile art. size of the Ikat 70cm x 46cm (10.5" x 4").