The rug got its name from the archaeologist Ulrich Schurmann. There are two theories: one suggests that Schurmann compared the large medallion in the center of the rug to the shape of a water area—like Lake Sevan, while the other theory proposes that the widespread presence of the rug in the Sevan region itself influenced the choice of name. The earliest examples of Sevan rugs date back to the 19th century. The rug is also known with the name “Shield” within the rug experts.
Designs are geometric in Sevan rugs. They characteristically have a large shield-shaped medallion that covers most of the field. The main border usually has stylized flower head, shrub, alternating angular leaves, or other motifs of Armenian rugs. The minor borders have trefoil and zigzag patterns, which are used by many Armenian weavers. Sevan rugs from the nineteenth century sometimes bear Armenian inscriptions and Christian dates.
Sevan weavers favored strong reds, blues, greens, or ivory for the field. These colors are interchangeable for the border and medallion. Different shades of light blue, brown, cinnamon, and gold are woven for the design elements and, at times, the borders and background.
The rugs have a warp made of wool. A mixture of goat hair and wool is sometimes used. The weft is dyed-red wool or, at times, a mixture of goat hair and wool. The high-grade sheep wool pile is cut long and has a soft and shiny patina. Sevan formats range from small bags to rugs approximately eight feet by five feet.
Sevan rugs today are known worldwide for their artistic designs and vibrant natural-dyed colors,
which are vivid and eye-catching. They are a valuable weaving product from the Caucasus region and are in strong demand in the antique market.
Source:
Abraham Levi Moheban;The Encyclopedia of Antique Carpets, Twenty Five Centuries of Weaving.