Kuba Kilim Rug

Stacked medallions climb the field like a totem made of diamonds.

This Kuba kilim rug is from the Caucasus, dating to the 20th century, in wool. The Kuba district of present-day Azerbaijan is generally known for densely patterned weavings, and its kilims make bold use of stepped and hooked forms. Here a coral field is filled with rows of dark, spiky medallions and ochre lozenges on vertical stems. Patches of lavender, slate blue and pink break up the ground. A narrow border of black zigzags on salmon runs around the edge, with short fringe at the ends. It measures 5.8 by 8.4 feet.

Plenty going on, and all of it on purpose.