Mid-19th C Armenian Shirvan Prayer rug. This border is found only on Armenian rugs and is based on the floor plan of Sissian Church 7th C, St. Hripsime 7th C, and many other early Armenian medieval churches. The rug has a so-called ‘floating Mihrab” found above all openings on Armenian medieval churches. The niches’ pointy shape is inspired by Armenian priests Veghars (Cowls). The field is covered by interlaced cruciforms and within each cruciform are various motifs formed by crosses.

The only thing constant in Armenian history no matter who subjugated it, was their awe-inspiring churches. Why wouldn’t they also display them on their rugs?