Turkoman Rug 1850's or Afghan Rug 1950's?

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Dear Barry,

I am very impressed with your RugNotes!
Do I may to ask you a small question about age and origin of this carpet. One specialist says that it's Turkoman 1850's and second said that it's afghan 1950's. Is you can say anything from this picture, because picture not always correct reflect the image.

Sincerely,
Beloglazov Sergei

Hello Beloglazov Sergei,

I love to tell people that there rugs are very old and valuable. Unfortunately I have to agree with the person who says 1950s Afghan. It appears to be a Purdah. Turkmen did not weave pile Purdahs they wove a similar but distinct item called an Ensi. The reason I think Afghan is a few factors.

The rug appears to have two panels Purdahs usually have two and Ensis have four.
I do not recognize the pattern in the box as one I see in older pieces.
The large border medallion that looks like a snow flake is more common in latter pieces.

Please feel free to send more rugs so we can find the treasure next time.

Best wishes,
Barry

For Further Reading:

Guide to Rugs & Books

The Persian Carpet

JBOC's Notes on the Bible

Southwest Asia Time Line

Thanks and best wishes,

J. Barry O'Connell Jr.