with large and small
geometrical figures in reds, yellows, and white. Some of the forms are
in the lozenge design, with colors in red and yellow, the reds
containing fine shadings of blue. Again square forms are seen, many
holding the same colors, ornamented with contrasting but harmonious
hues. In the centre are two geometrical figures of considerable size,
one in yellow, and one in red. Each of these has yellow and white in its
centre. On either side are still larger forms in yellow and blue. The
border is geometrical, the hook design in a bracket being in evidence,
and outside of this is a narrower stripe in red, white, black, and
yellow. The many markings add greatly to the beauty of this interesting
Daghestan._

REPRODUCED BY COURTESY OF MR. CLARENCE BURLEY, CHICAGO.]

_Kazak_ rugs are woven by a nomad tribe dwelling among the Caucasus
Mountains. There is a certain strength and vigor about the Kazak rugs
that seem to be in harmony with the tribe that weaves them. The word
Kazak is a corruption of Cossack; and the durability of these rugs, as
well as a certain boldness of effect in their designs and colors,
corresponds with the hardihood of the people who weave them. The rugs
are thick and soft; their colors are blues, soft reds, and greens. Often
the field is a deep rose or a green, sometimes with one or more
geometrical figures and several medallions, or with the palm-leaf design
in rather large size throughout. When the palm leaf is used, it is
generally decorated with a smaller leaf of a different hue. Many
varieties of small designs are also seen, including circles, diamonds,
squares, and the tau cross, which is almost always present. Some of the
antique Kazaks are very fine.

_Shirvan_ rugs are attractive from their quiet, agreeable tints, and
fine, even texture. They are made in large quantities, and readily sold.
The best are of white wool, but the inferior ones may hold cotton or
goat's hair. Often blues and whites are the colors employed, with
markings of red or yellow. Sometimes there are stripes in the border,
one wide stripe followed by a series of narrow ones. The hook is a
frequent design, and may be found in the field, incasing some
geometrical figure. Sometimes a conventionalized floral design is
observed in the border.

_Soumak_ rugs ought really to be called Shemakha, for that is the name
of the town in the government of Baku from which they are exported. But
the contraction of the word into