Matched Pair of Antique Tekke Turkmen Chuval Faces

An exceptionally attractive matched pair of antique Tekke Turkmen chuval faces, dating to the late nineteenth century and surviving together in remarkably fine condition. Each piece displays the classic six-gul composition, arranged in two horizontal rows of three large turreted guls across a rich crimson-to-deep madder-red field. The principal guls are beautifully articulated in shades of red, dark brown, ivory and deep blue, with smaller secondary guls positioned between them to create a balanced and rhythmic composition. The field is surrounded by numerous narrow geometric borders densely worked with small repeating tribal devices. Particularly striking is the broad lower elem panel, filled with an intricate repeating angular floral pattern. This richly decorated lower section provides a beautiful visual counterpoint to the more spacious arrangement of the six large guls above. The coloration is especially impressive, dominated by deep madder, crimson, raspberry and burgundy reds, with accents of rust-orange, dark brown, midnight blue and ivory. The wool has a rich, lustrous appearance, and the fine, compact weaving is evident in the detailed photograph. The fact that these two pieces have survived together as a matching pair is especially desirable. Specialist references note that chuvals were traditionally woven in pairs, making an intact matched pair particularly interesting today.