Antique Very Fine Kashan Rug

Persian Kashan rugs are considered among the finest Persian rugs and carpets, with a history of rug making dating back to the 16th Century, the time of the Safavid Dynasty, and the Golden era of Persian rug production. Since Safavid times, Kashan was the centre of silk production and as such many of the best Classical Persian silk rugs have been attributed to Kashan. Towards the end of the 19th Century the workshops of Kashan began to produce exceptional quality wool and silk rugs and carpets which demonstrated the high standards of design and weave technique established in the Classical era. This Persian silk Kashan Prayer rug is classified as ‘Souf’, which is defined by the presence of both flat woven and pile structure. The flat woven areas often referred to as brocade, are made of metalic wrapped silk threads which can be of copper, silver, gold as well as silk. This Persian Souf Kashan Prayer rug displays the very best of Kashan workmanship, and is presented in outstanding condition. The term ‘Prayer rug’ is defined by the asymmetric design format with an ascending design in this case presenting a vase issuing a profusion of flowering vines supported by similarly orientated plants seemingly extending into an arch. The main field area in Prayer rugs is called the Prayer ‘niche’ or ‘mihrab’. Although recognisable as a Prayer rug format, this style of design proved popular in Western markets and as such they were produced by the weavers as decorative artefacts and not necessarily for use as functional Muslim Prayer rugs. This Persian Silk Kashan Souf Prayer rug displays the very best of Kashan workmanship, in terms of technical construction and pattern drawing. The consummate artistry is enhanced by the use of characteristic traditional Kashan colours, the tones of which indicate that the rug was made around 1900. Shades of red, blue, ivory with green and yellow detailing are combined beautifully in this outstanding Persian Silk Kashan Prayer rug.

Antique Very Fine Kasahan Rug. This piece was handwoven in 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.