Fine Persian Tabriz Rug

An Exceptionally Fine Persian Tabriz Carpet, North West Persia, Wool and Silk Highlights on Silk Foundation, 308 x 294cm. approximately. Mid 20th Century

The ivory field with a large circular radiating polychrome pendant star medallion, supported by overall sinuous curvilinear scrolling vines issuing small leaves, overlaid with similar, thicker vines issuing predominantly yellow palmettes, flower heads and leaves, quarter medallion spandrels, within an ivory border enclosing continuous strap work and flowering vine cartouches alternating with lobed floral medallions supported by meandering vines adorned with flower heads and leaves, small inscription cartouches to each end.

The city of Tabriz in North West Persia, was the earliest Capital of the Safavid Dynasty, (1502 – 1736), and as such is most likely to have been the centre of carpet weaving longer than any other significant centre in Persia. Regarded as the ‘Golden Age ‘ of carpet making, the Safavid Shah’s were avid patrons of the arts in all subjects, and actively encouraged pursuit of excellence in craftsmanship and creativity. Tabriz led the way, and as a result of this long tradition, Persian Tabriz carpets, influenced by varying cultures over time display a huge repertoire of varying designs from ‘medallion’ to overall repeat patterns.

The range of colours is seemingly endless, and the combination of colours used is always carefully considered to create the most harmonic and decorative end product. From these earlier times, these established traditions have continued through to the present day, and many exceptional Persian Tabriz carpets have been made closely based on the ‘original’ Safavid carpet designs.

This magnificent Persian Tabriz carpet displays a staggeringly intricate design based on 17th Century Classical ‘models’. The materials used, Kork wool, and silk on a silk foundation allow for this intricacy to be created. The central medallion recalls an architectural mosaic ceiling feature and serves as a focal point to which the supporting pattern compliments superbly. The central medallion also lies majestically on a layer of complex scrolling curvilinear vines which are adorned with delicate flower heads, and small leaves. This layer of flowering vines are then overlaid on similar scrolling vines which are adorned with palmettes and delicate curling leaves, which are drawn differently to the first layer of vinery. This format, incorporating layers of pattern is from 17th Century Classical iconography and gives depth, helping to create a sense of movement to the overall pattern.

The pattern is symmetrical on the horizontal and vertical axis which includes the spandrels which are presented as quarter medallions. The border treatment compliments the central field area superbly, with the same intricacy as the drawing of the floral pattern in the central field. The colours used are, ivory, shades of blue, ochre green and copper red, combined sensitively and majestically to present an exceptional work of Art, recognised by the Ustad worthy of not just one, but two inscription marks.

This Persian Tabriz carpet is a testament of technical fineness and represents the very best of mid 20th Century Tabriz craftsmanship.

Fine Signed Square Persian Tabriz Rug. This piece was handwoven in Tabriz , Iran. For further information please contact us and our team will be pleased to assist you. All pieces in the collection are under the auspices of Essie Sakhai, one of the world’s foremost experts and collectors of fine handmade Persian rugs and carpets.