20th Century Tabriz Carpet

The city of Tabriz in Northwest Persia has long been known as a centre for Persian arts, culture, and literature, but especially for the quality of its carpets, with a tradition dating back as early as the 14th Century. Thanks to its location, incorporating influences from nearby Azerbaijan and Turkey, its weavings are among the most diverse of any city in Persia, and antique Tabriz carpets are especially distinguished by their impressive artistry and close adherence to the traditions of Classical Persian rug weaving design.

This highly decorative c. 1900 example employs an unusually grand scale design – borrowed from earlier Safavid Era works of the 17th Century - with scrolling vegetal motifs in delicate ochre tones over a rare duck egg blue ground. 

One especially attractive feature of this piece is the uniformity of colour across the field and the border - rather than the conventional stark contrast - lending the work a rare sense of space and balance. In good practical condition for everyday use, with a characterful age-related patina, although with some minor restoration, completed to a high standard. 

A sophisticated weaving, with a real feeling of effortless grace.