Apr 06

Karabakh Chondoresk (Cloud-Band) Rugs

Karabagh Chondoresk style rugs are a type of Armenian rug that originated in the Karabakh region of the South Caucasus. These rugs are highly valued for their unique and intricate designs, as well as their durability and high quality craftsmanship. Karabakh is a landlocked region located in the south of Armenia and the west of Azerbaijan. And since the collapse of the USSR a sizable chunk of the region (marked Nagorno-Karabakh below) is part of a violent dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan.   

Map illustration of the Nagorno-Karabakh region between Armenia and Azerbaijan

One of the distinctive features of Chondoresk style Karabakh rugs is their construction. They are hand-knotted using wool or silk and the knots are tightly packed together to create a dense, durable pile. The Cloud-Band (Chondoresk) style is characterized by a repeating diamond pattern that is often filled with floral and geometric motifs. The colors used in these rugs are typically bold and vivid, with reds, blues, greens and yellows being common.

Karabakh Chrondoresk style rugs have a rich history, dating back to at least the 18th century. Like most rugs they were originally made for domestic use, but their high quality and striking designs soon made them popular exports to markets throughout Europe and the Middle East. Today they remain highly prized by collectors and decorators alike for their beauty, durability, and historical significance.