Fine Persian Kashan Pictorial Rug

This Persian Kashan rug is from a recognisable small group of ‘revivalist’ pictorial rugs, defined by the drawing style. Pictorial rugs take many forms depicting landscape scenes with or without animals and human forms, sometimes wooded, sometimes with more open pictorial images; this open style is seen here.

Kashan weavers are historically used to creating dense, highly detailed patterns though this original Kashan work displays a relatively uncharacteristic pictorial scene. The pattern details present an intriguing mix of basic simplistic drawing with occasional more detailed motifs, perhaps comparable to the painting style of post Impressionism. The image appears to be an exercise in perspective, which is effectively presented by the layered subject matter and the associated drawing of the elements. The colours are essentially pastel in tone, with shades of brown, white and grey forming the background composition and contrasting stronger colours to define the pattern elements which enhance the presentation of depth and place emphasis on the perspective. The predominant use of white and the way it has been applied suggests that this is a thawing snowy scene, and combined with a blossoming tree suggests the oncoming of spring. The meandering pathway disappearing at the base of the mountains also enhances the depth element to the composition. The shaded blue sky is an effective addition which completes the sense of depth, and which somehow brings a subtle sense of realism to the scene. The flocks of birds further enhance the scene giving depth and movement. The border pattern effectively continues the theme, with pattern details drawn in the same style reflecting the tree, building and pathway elements.

This Persian Kashan pictorial rug displays an endearing landscape scene presented in a particular style consistent with ‘Revivalist’ approach to creating outstanding, original works of woven art, of which the highly skilled Kashan weavers are well equipped to aspire to.

Old Kashan pictorial rug. This piece was handwoven in Kashan , 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.