Extremely Fine ‘Gol Bolbol’ Persian Tabriz Rug

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. Due to increased 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 established. Persian Tabriz carpets made at this time and moving forward to the present day display designs  based on 17th century ‘Safavid’ carpet designs and include ingenious new styles of design based on wider influences and the desire to be adventurist.

This fine Tabriz tree of life rug is from a recognisable group of technically fine decorative rugs which epitomises one of the many new styles of design consistent with the Persian ‘Revivalist’ approach to originality, and as such, this composition can only be of 20th century Pahlavi origin. This group is defined by the presence of the ‘goli bol-bol’ ( rose and nightingale ) elements in the composition. The design is not just associated with Tabriz, but is also seen in other Persian urban city workshop centres of production, particularly Esfahan. The weavers have to be highly skilled and experienced in order to do justice to this remarkable fine pattern.

The tree of life design is a popular style of design format, and in this Persian Tabriz masterpiece, it is presented against a rich, dark background. The nightscape designed for the backdrop illuminates the motifs at the foreground, creating an ethereal effect that allows the various flora, birds and butterfly to stand out on their own. Through a clever use of outlining and contrast, the dark forms featured in this magnificent vintage Persian rug, en-wreathe the elements at the foreground, allowing the outlines to blend into the backdrop to give a surreal feeling to the lighter tones at the foreground of this fine Persian Tabriz rug. Displayed are numerous ascending meandering fronds, linked to leaves and petals creating a wonderful delicate composition, and the rising arrangement of the natural elements results in an even more beautiful tree-like configuration. The much lighter violet border acts as a superb contrasting frame giving more credence to the central design. It is not surprising that this fine Persian Tabriz rug is signed by the maker.

Extremely Fine ‘Gol Bolbol’ Persian Tabriz Rug. 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.