The stripe represented in Plate [K], Fig, 15, is found in very old rugs of the Daghestan and Derbend types; and there is a tradition among some of the native weavers that the designs originally represented boat hooks used by the sailors of the Caspian Sea. It is not unreasonable to suppose that the early weavers imitated objects of utility before those of mere ornament; but even if there is any basis for the tradition, it is equally probable that these designs are derived from the lily or other floral forms, and were introduced from Persia.
Somewhat similar to the last is the reciprocal trefoil, which generally appears with more simple drawing than is shown in Plate [F], Fig. 17 (opp. Page 158). It is more widely used for a border stripe than any other pattern, as it is found in almost all Caucasian, in a large number of Persian, in Indian, and Beluchistan rugs. It was commonly used in Persian rugs as early as the year 1500.
The dainty Chain pattern of Plate [K], Fig. 16 has a well authenticated antiquity, as it is found in Asia Minor carpets of the XV Century, from which it was probably derived. Without doubt it was a favourite pattern three centuries ago, as it appears in some of the early paintings in which Oriental carpets are represented.
Plate K. Secondary and Tertiary Border-Stripes of Caucasian Rugs
Not infrequently the right-angled corners are rounded so as to give it a more graceful form.
As the purely geometric pattern of Plate [K], Fig. 17 is entirely lacking in ornamental features, it is used principally to separate more important stripes. Occasionally it is found in such rugs as the Chichis and Shirvans.
Another very simple pattern that is sometimes used as an inside stripe is seen in Plate [K], Fig. 18. This is evidently an archaic form and is found principally in pieces of the Shirvan district.