Exceptionally Fine Extra Large Tabriz Carpet

An extraordinary technically fine carpet which recalls the finest examples of early 17th Century Safavid weaving. This Persian Tabriz carpet displays a design based on a small recognised group of 16th and 17th Persian carpets referred to as ‘Medallion and Animal’ carpets. The Safavid rulers were known as great Patrons of the Arts in all forms which included carpets, and as such, what is recognised as the ‘Golden Age’ of carpet production was born and which was to have a profound effect for the future development of woven art at its very best. Master Artisans were commissioned to create exceptionally beautiful, technically fine works of art to adorn Grand Persian Palaces, and Mosques, and made for presentation as gifts to foreign Lands for diplomatic purposes. The Tabriz weavers during this time were recognised as the most skilled and experienced in Persia. As a rapid consequence, the pursuit of excellence in carpet making spread to other significant Persian Centres including Isfahan, Kashan, Meshed and Kirman further enhancing the production of exceptional Safavid carpets in evolving styles of outstanding design and created with technical excellence. The late 17th Century through to the mid 19th century saw a relative stagnation in the creation and promotion of carpet art, which was reversed from around the 1860’s onwards due to increasing interest and demands predominantly from European markets. What evolved from the 1860’s into the 20th Century was a revival of the once famous carpet weaving industry of the Safavid Dynasty.

This remarkable Persian Tabriz Carpet epitomises all the very best attributes, technically and visually, as an example of this ‘Revival’ of excellence. This Persian Tabriz carpet features a hunting scene involving animals and birds, amongst flowering plants and vines all drawn in astonishing detail creating realistic images. The format is symmetrical through both the horizontal and vertical axis, thus creating a ‘perfect’ image. The fineness of the weave and skill of the highly experienced weavers allow for such intricacy and realism to be created to form such a significant work of 20th century art.

This Persian Tabriz carpet of exceptional size displays a theme of abundance in a garden of Paradise, incorporating traditional floral and fauna, these elements, presented in a phenomenal range of colours consistent with the extensive Tabriz palette. There is no doubting that this carpet represents a point of reference demonstrating the very best of 20th century revivalism in carpet art and is an exemplary example. Many fine 20th Century Urban made carpets and rugs bear the signature of the designer, and it is somewhat surprising that a carpet of this calibre and elegance is not signed, though must have been created by a recognised Ustad, ( Designer ), and by highly experienced weavers.