Vintage Persian rugs are a beautiful manifestation of the old world tradition and style that have long defined the carpet industry. They fill a space with color, depth and excitement, and are highly sought after by taste makers and major decorators. This is because the design and artistic motifs of the rug are a rich expression of a culture that dates back thousands of years. Incorporating one of these antique rugs into your home or business is an investment that will be enjoyed for generations to come.
Persian rugs are considered by many to be the most intricate and beautifully designed of all antique Oriental rugs. They are prized for their flawless proportions and effortless fluidity. They follow ancient geometric principles and the angles of spiraling curves with unerring accuracy without seeming stiff or rigid. Their exquisite floral and lavish botanical designs are an embodiment of timeless style, reminiscent of ageless elegance.
Historically, the most authentic Persian rugs were woven by skilled master weavers in prestigious Persian cities and towns. The weavers incorporated the weaving traditions of their city or cultural group, and blended them with styles and dyes that were unique to their region. This resulted in limitless permutations of design and techniques.
In addition, the weaver would typically tell a story through the use of the design symbols. These were often symbols of the tribe, the family or even the weavers themselves. The patterns, shapes and colors of these symbols would have specific meanings. For example, a stylized flower, like the “boteh” (or a rose) could represent love and affection. A stylized bird, like the stork, represented prosperity or wisdom.
Another unique aspect of Persian rug design is the use of natural dyes. These dyes were traditionally sourced from berries, insects, plants and minerals. These dye recipes were guarded as precious tribal secrets, and served to create lustrous, vibrant works of art. When chemical dyes were introduced, the quality of the rug deteriorated, and the original motifs began to disappear from the rugs.
LEVEL 2 HIGH COLLECTIBLE:
During the late 19th century and early 20th century, the rugs produced in the Persian cities and towns continued to rise in popularity and value. The most sought after were the rugs from Kerman, which employed a distinct technique called the ‘vase’ method of construction. This allowed for designs of incredible complexity to be woven, including densely packed floral patterns and garden design rugs. Other notable rugs of this era were the ogival lattice and floral medallion pieces from Sultanabad. These rugs are all one of a kind, and a collector’s dream.