SHEMAKHA, SUMAK OR CASHMERE RUG
Size 6'2" × 4'9"
Property of Mr. H. J. Gaylord, Syracuse, N. Y.
Designs.—Similar to those of the Daghestan and Shirvan and have remained unchanged for centuries. All designs are outlined in black and the Mongolian influence is quite perceptible, the knot of destiny, mountains, etc., being very frequently used, together with the usual Caucasian designs such as the latch hook, octagon, and various other geometrical devices. Animals are frequently portrayed.
Sizes.—From three to seven by four to twelve feet. Seldom larger than seven by ten. Antiques were not made in carpet sizes.
Prices.—From $0.75 to $1.75 per square foot.
Remarks.—Durable, but they lack animation compared with other rugs.
THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED
Unlike other classes, the Shemakha has no pile but has a flat stitch made by winding the dyed woof thread around the warp yarn. This piece is one of the finest, having thirteen stitches to the inch. Like in most rugs of its class, the designs are typically Caucasian, among which are freely interspersed plenty of eight-pointed stars, swastikas and knots of destiny. The latter motif is nearly always present in this variety.
SHIRVAN
Why So Named.—After the district of Shirvan, south of Daghestan and extending from the Caspian Sea to the river Kur. Marketed at Baku, the trade centre of the district.