Oriental Rugs Dictionary
Caucasian Shield Rug
Shield rugs refer to a group of Caucasian carpets featuring large central medallions or motifs resembling shields. These designs are typically bold and geometric, reflecting the tribal weaving traditions of the Caucasus. The term is descriptive of the motif rather than indicating a specific weaving center. The so called "Shield Rugs" are a group of very finely woven south Caucasian rugs with an all over pattern of diagonally arranged shield shaped motifs with hooked extensions. Some scholars believe that the design was influenced by European culture of the era. Most of these rugs are Kazaks but few were woven in Shirvan, many with silk foundation.
