Extremely Fine Persian Tabriz Carpet

Since the 16th century the city of Tabriz has been an important historical centre for the production of outstanding and significant decorative handmade Persian carpets. Under the auspices of the Safavid Dynasty rulers, Tabriz was established as a primary centre for setting the standards of excellence in technical quality, styles of design, creativity, and presence and effective use of an extensive colour palette.

Historically Tabriz, primarily due to Geographical location has always attracted a multi-cultural populace, which over time has resulted in a huge and varied repertoire of design styles of ‘medallion’ and overall repeat patterns. The weavers of Tabriz are well known for their skill and ability to adapt to evolving demands. From the ‘Golden Age’ of carpet art creativity of the 17th Century, Tabriz has maintained continuity in pursuit of excellence and due to increase of interest and demand for ‘all things Eastern’ in Western markets from the late 19th century the talented Tabriz weavers responded accordingly. The considerable increase in demand from the late 19th Century onwards is often referred to as the ‘Revival’, and by the time of the Pahlavi dynasty, established in 1925, the ‘Revival’ was well under way. Persian Tabriz carpets made at this time and moving forward to the present day display designs  based on 17th century ‘Safavid’ carpet designs and also ingenious new styles of design based on wider influences and the desire to be adventurist.

This exceptionally fine Persian Tabriz carpet is a superb example of Tabriz ‘Revival’ craftsmanship. It appears to be an example of an established ‘group’ of fine Persian Tabriz weavings, displaying the ‘mahi’ design, defined as follows. The tight overall field pattern is drawn in extraordinary detail comprising a myriad of tiny floral elements arranged in such a way that various small circles, ovals and diamonds float in and out of the surface depending on the viewers point of focus creating a remarkable three-dimensional effect. The choice of contrasting yet complementary colours with terracotta, rust beige and ivory medallion and spandrels sitting majestically on a blue background with subtle ochre and green tones used as detail colours served to enhance this amazing visual experience, and demonstrates great artistic skills associated with the Tabriz weaver abilities. The use of white silk, primarily employed as a framing colour to define the primary design elements further enhances the appearance and is a welcome addition to the composition particularly apparent defining the lobed centre piece.   Considerable weaving skills would be required to create this outstanding work of woven art, at very least given the sheer volume of minute detailing presented. This field composition epitomises a style of design associated with ‘Pahlavi’ craftsmanship. Cleverly, and consistent with complementing this style of design, the border pattern is traditional to earlier established border treatment displaying ‘turtle’ palmettes arranged with other characteristic traditional floral elements drawn in such a way as to give a sense of movement and fluidity which magnificently compliments the formal small patterned field design. This is a truly remarkable mid-20th Century ‘Pahlavi’ Persian Tabriz carpet which demonstrates Tabriz artistry and adventurism at its best. Bold and elegant, contemporary yet traditional, this finely made Persian Tabriz carpet represents a stunning and highly sophisticated artistic statement.

Extremely Fine Persian Tabriz Carpet. 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.