Late 19th Century Persian Kashan Rug, 10'03 X 16'02

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79410 Antique Persian Kashan Rug, 10'03 x 16'02.

The Shah Abbasi Court: A Late 19th Century Persian Kashan Masterpiece of … Read more 79410 Antique Persian Kashan Rug, 10'03 x 16'02.

The Shah Abbasi Court: A Late 19th Century Persian Kashan Masterpiece of Elegance

Woven in Kashan during the late Qajar period of the 19th century, this hand knotted wool antique Persian rug exemplifies the height of classical court weaving, when technical mastery and ornamental sophistication were inseparable. This extraordinary masterpiece reflects a lineage of refinement reserved for elite patrons—rugs conceived not merely as furnishings, but as cultivated expressions of taste, intellect, and social standing. Pieces of this caliber were destined for formal salons and reception chambers, where design spoke quietly yet decisively of prestige.

The exceptional field is conceived as an uninterrupted Shah Abbasi allover garden, a hallmark of Kashan excellence. Palmettes with serrated lobes anchor the composition, their rhythmic repetition creating visual stability without rigidity. Interspersed among them are rosette blossoms with articulated centers, lending precision and clarity to the otherwise fluid arrangement. The exclusive design invites the eye to wander—an intentional strategy rooted in Persian garden philosophy, where abundance and balance coexist.

Flowing throughout the sumptuous surface, Islimi arabesque vines weave the entire composition into a continuous, breathing network. These iconic scrolling tendrils bind palmettes, lilies, and lotus hybrids into a unified ornamental system, showcasing Kashan’s celebrated ability to merge botanical symbolism with disciplined geometry. The drawing is confident and lyrical, revealing a workshop deeply fluent in classical Persian design language while still allowing for subtle variation and nuance.

Framing the field is a richly articulated Shah Abbasi palmette border, its scrolling vinery echoing the internal rhythm of this exquisite work of art. Delicate inner and outer guard borders introduce finer floral meanders, providing visual cadence and structural refinement. Together, these elements create a layered architectural enclosure—one that elevates the softly structured composition without overwhelming it. For the discerning collector, this heirloom of artistry and status is not simply an antique rug; it is a museum-worthy testament to Persian artistry at its most sophisticated and enduring.

Abrash.
Hand knotted wool.
Made in Iran.
Measures: 10'03 x 16'02.

Date: 1890's. Late 19th Century. See less