Shahsevan sumak bagface

Using a saturated and subtly modulated medium-blue ground this large Shahsevan sumak bag face draws a creative reinterpretation of a classic design from the Khamseh region of Azerbaijan province. Here the various latch-hook forms, more typically organized around a central octagon, are rotated in rows of alternating ornament. The demarcation of the central portion of the field is done not through any unique element placed in the center but by the change of color of the elements of the central row. In keeping with the brilliant visual dynamism of form for which these tribal weavers are renowned an ambiguity is created between the notion of vegetal and zoomorphic and a case for either interpretation is plausible when looking at each individual element. Perhaps representing a trans-Caspian influence, a ‘syrga’ type main border, reminiscent of Yomut Turkmen weaving, is colorfully composed linking ‘S’ forms against an ivory ground. A parade of small colorful animals form the outer border adding a sense of joy to this more abstract geometric composition.