A fine Tabriz carpet

Persia, circa 1890.

12ft 4in (375cm)     x     8ft 7in  (261cm)

The merchants of Tabriz were responsible for the revival of carpet weaving in Persia towards the end of the nineteenth century, primarily to satisfy the new demand from the west.

This superb example demonstrates the art of fine carpet weaving in the traditional manner. The design derives from the classical medallion carpets, popular during the reign of Shah Abbas I (1588-1629), from the Safavid period of Persia.

The sophisticated combination of the lighter colours of yellow and ivory incorporated in the bold design elements distinguishes this carpet from those typically woven from the Tabriz region. The use of the same colour in both border and field is a rare feature as well as the European influenced floral details.