Persian Signed Tabriz Carpet

In the late 19th Century there occurred, in Persia a ‘Revival’ of fine decorative carpet weaving. The weaving standards of which were based on the consummate artistry in woven carpet art in a time regarded as the ‘Golden Era’ of carpet production under the patronage of the 17th century, Safavid Dynastic rulers.

This fine Persian Tabriz carpet displays a style of design synonymous with these classical roots though with a characteristic ‘take’ associated with the revival period. The pattern as seen here displays a formal arrangement with an all over design of palmettes in varying orientations, linked in this instance by exceptionally finely drawn curvilinear scrolling tendrils over two layers supported by over laid and partially hidden cloud bands. These pattern elements overlaid with the larger scaled palmettes. Such a format is certainly based on classical models. The marked contrast in scale between the sinuous tendrils and bold palmettes is an artistic triumph, which demonstrates that exceptionally fine details can live harmonically with considerably larger pattern elements.  Although the classical models do not always adhere to a symmetrical composition, in most cases such symmetry is present in both horizontal and vertical axis. The composition of this carpet is symmetrical only on the vertical axis. The lack of horizontal symmetry actually generates a greater sense of movement and fluidity, in this Persian Tabriz carpet, enhanced further by the infinite repeat device whereby pattern motifs are seen disappearing behind the borders on all sides suggesting that the pattern continuous without ending. This is a decorative device dating back to the 16th century and maybe earlier. The pastel colours selected for the pattern details in this outstanding Persian Tabriz carpet are used to consummate effect. Shades of apricot, white silk, ochre, ivory and dove grey form the basis of the colours of the palmettes and flower heads, whereas the sinuous tendrils are drawn in aubergine tones which give clear definition to the detail to great artistic effect. Traditionally border back ground colours are normally of contrasting colour to the main field colour. It is courageous for the designer to use the same colour throughout the entire composition as the border invariably acts as a distinguishable frame for the main field decoration. The border pattern details are similar to the main field motifs, in similar colours, though drawn on a smaller scale and more compressed. This change in scale emphasis subtly creates the important border frame.

This magnificent Persian Tabriz carpet is a superb example of ‘Revivalist’ artistry, respecting classical traditions though showing supreme skill in adaptation and progression to create an exceptional decorative carpet which would fit perfectly in traditional or contemporary interior settings.

Persian Signed 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.