Persian Mahal Carpet

Carpets classified as of Mahal origin are made in urban workshops in and around Arak in West Central Persia. Their carpets display distinctive and characteristic designs invariably based on 16th and 17th Century Classical Persian carpet designs.

This magnificent Persian Mahal carpet displays all the very best attributes of Mahal workmanship. The pattern details and the layout of the pattern are clearly based on the Classical early 17th Century traditions epitomised by the presence of large flame palmettes of varying sizes and arrangement and layout of the supporting pattern motifs. The palmettes are linked by curvilinear vines which are in turn adorned with smaller flower head roundels, the vinery ending in small leaves which forms an all over design which is symmetrical on both the vertical and horizontal axis. This lower plane of pattern is then overlaid with another defined level giving a sense of depth and movement to the overall pattern, which is seen here with the addition of further palmettes, and cloud bands. The original Classical carpets often had even more tiers of design which presented a full traditional detailed rendition. This Persian Mahal carpet displays a ‘stripping out ‘of layers of design leaving a highly decorative open pattern which is characteristic of a 20th Century Mahal style.

The border decoration displays a traditional Classical arrangement with palmettes alternating in this case with star flower heads linked by beautifully drawn curled serrated leaves in a diagonal ‘s’ arrangement which gives a real sense of movement to the overall design, complementing the sense of movement generated in the main field pattern.

The colours are from a characteristic Mahal palette, used to consummate effect. In the main, pastel colours are used showing shades of green, apricot, ivory, aquamarine, and red. The predominance of the pastel toned motifs are enhanced by the inclusion of red detailing, used to great artistic effect which heightens the visual impact of this beautiful Persian Mahal carpet. The red detailing is used in relatively small amounts in the central field though used in greater quantities in the border motifs. This is ingenious, in that this stronger tone serves to enhance the overall composition and appearance by helping to define the relevance of the border which acts as a frame to the main action in the main field.

It is worthy of note that the weavers of this fine Persian Mahal carpet have included a detailed continuous pendant outer surround. Such small drawn pattern detailing is unusual in their work, though is a remarkably effective yet courageous addition which enhances the overall decorative appearance of this stunning Persian Mahal carpet.

There is little doubt that this magnificent Persian Mahal carpet is a remarkable example of 20th Century Mahal workmanship which would sit comfortably as an outstanding centre piece in traditional and contemporary interior settings.

Persian Mahal Carpet. This piece was handwoven in Mahal , 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.