For your consideration is an Original Hand Knotted Turkmen Mori (or Mauri) Gul Wool Silk Blend Rug from Afghanistan, circa early to mid 1900s. Provenance: the Owen D. Mort, Jr. Collection. Owen David Mort was an American engineer who amassed an impressive collection throughout his worldwide travels. His collection has included art, artifacts and other historical items from which he has donated to museums at the University of Utah and the Snite Museum of Art at the University of Notre Dame. Donations also included Afghan, Indian, Mughal, Persian, African, and Far East Asian art and artifacts. The Afghan rugs called Mauris (or Mawri) after the Merv Oasis, where the weavers originated, have an unusually low knot count. Afghan Mauri rugs are not based on the traditional Turkoman guls. Mauri Gul rugs are known to have sharp patterns, boldly geometric designs and smooth weaves, often featuring a combination of stylized floral and tribal motifs. The most distinctive feature of these rugs is the 'gul' – a repeated medallion-like design that varies in shape and size depending on the tribe that created the rug. The borders of Turkmen rugs typically consist of multiple bands, each adorned with intricate geometric or floral patterns that complement the central design. They can also be used as excellent wall-hangings and showpieces because of their rich colors and striking designs. The Mauri Gul wool silk blend rug is in good condition. Against an olive/tan background are geometric patterns in navy blue and cream. The two vertical building shaped gul medallions are separated by a square geometric plaza. Both ends of the rug are tasseled, and it measures 76"L x 50"W. The weight is 8lb 6oz.*