Interestingly, central transcaucasia, particularly Karabagh, and western transcaucasia emerge from relative obscurity to become recognized as areas of significant flatweave production. Prof. Bechhoefer's design of the exhibit is conceived as a journey. Appropriately, From Kuba to Kars begins in Karabagh. A variety of tent trappings, covers and saddle bags are analyzed and given firm attributions. A wonderful shadda is included.
Covers known as shadda vary widely in design.
Two were particularly popular. One portrays a camel caravan and is highly coveted by collectors. The other depicts delicate flowers. Graphically, the WTG example of the second type of shadda is enhanced by a single flower in the lower right corner. Many collectors might praise the spontaneity of this single white flower floating in a sea of color as an individualistic expression of a master weaver.