Fine Kashmir Silk-on-Silk Rug, Kaaba Door Design, Islamic Art, Circa Late 20th Century

Details

Description

This masterpiece-quality Kashmir silk-on-silk rug represents the pinnacle of hand-knotted artistry from the famed weaving region of Kashmir, where a … Read more This masterpiece-quality Kashmir silk-on-silk rug represents the pinnacle of hand-knotted artistry from the famed weaving region of Kashmir, where a rich Muslim cultural heritage has shaped textile traditions for centuries.



The design depicts the Kaaba Door (Bab al-Kaaba), an image of profound spiritual significance in Islam. The Kaaba, located in the sacred city of Mecca, is the holiest site in the Muslim world — the direction of prayer for over 1.8 billion Muslims. The door’s intricate patterns and calligraphy are traditionally embroidered on the Kiswah, the cloth that covers the Kaaba, replaced annually in a ceremony dating back over a thousand years.



Executed in pure silk pile and silk foundation (with minimal cotton in the edging for reinforcement), this rug’s shimmering surface and precise detail are the result of an exceptionally fine weave — approximately 10–11 knots per linear centimeter (~1.0–1.2 million knots/m²), a density comparable to the finest Persian Qum and Turkish Hareka silks. The golden inscriptions and motifs are drawn from Islamic art traditions, echoing Qur’anic verses and arabesque scrolls that symbolize unity, eternity, and divine beauty.



Handwoven in Kashmir in the late 20th century, this piece would have taken a master weaver many months to complete. The rug is mounted with a custom wall-hanging rod with crystal finials, allowing it to be displayed as both a devotional and artistic statement.

Details
Origin: Kashmir, India

Date: Late 20th century (c. 1980s–1990s)

Design: Kaaba Door (Bab al-Kaaba), Islamic art calligraphy and arabesques

Materials: Silk pile, silk warp & weft; minimal cotton edging

Knot Density: ~1.0–1.2 million knots/m²

Size: 63 × 38 in (161 × 97 cm), excluding fringe

Mounting: Includes wall-hanging rod with crystal finials (pictured)

Condition


Very good vintage condition; light fringe wear at the top corners consistent with age and display use. Clean and ready to hang.

Provenance & Cultural Note


The Kaaba Door design is revered in Islamic art and textile history, symbolizing the gateway to the holiest sanctuary in Islam. Rugs with this motif are highly sought after by collectors of Islamic art, cultural institutions, and discerning decorators worldwide.

Price Positioning


Comparable to fine Kashmir silk-on-silk rugs of similar density listed on luxury platforms such as Pamono at $12,000–$14,000 for larger sizes. Proportionally priced here to reflect size, exceptional weave, and cultural significance. See less