Doris Leslie Blau Antique Kirman Floral Warm Tan Runner - c. 1900 (Fragment)

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This exquisite antique Persian Kirman fragment runner from circa 1900 is a rare and richly expressive textile that captures the … Read more This exquisite antique Persian Kirman fragment runner from circa 1900 is a rare and richly expressive textile that captures the storytelling spirit of Persian art. Woven in the famed weaving centers of Kirman, the runner presents a breathtaking display of courtly equestrian scenes, mythical beasts, and blossoming flora, all rendered in delicate, finely knotted wool. Set against a vibrant crimson field, the composition brims with life and movement. Cavalier figures in regal attire are depicted mid-hunt, mounted on spirited horses, skillfully positioned to create symmetrical rhythm and visual drama. Surrounding the riders are gracefully drawn deer and goats nestled among dense thickets of palmettes and lotus blossoms. Stylized trees and floral vines interweave through the action, creating a narrative tapestry that is both kinetic and lush. What makes this runner truly remarkable is the outstanding clarity and depth of the figures, likely inspired by Safavid-period manuscript painting. These motifs were often commissioned for palatial interiors, reflecting themes of nobility, valor, and paradise. The main border, a visual delight in its own right, features a parade of songbirds perched amid blooming branches, intricately composed in ivory, navy, and sky blue. This lyrical framing lends a sense of serenity and harmony to the energetic core of the design. Despite being a fragment, the runner retains its decorative power and historical integrity. Its elongated format makes it ideal for hallways or gallery-like spaces, offering a sweeping visual journey across time and culture. Meticulously hand-knotted using fine wool, the piece speaks to the renowned craftsmanship of Kirman weavers, known for their precision, nuanced color palettes, and narrative richness. With its vivid imagery and refined artistry, this antique Persian runner is more than a carpet-it is a window into a romanticized Persian past. A rare piece from the Doris Leslie Blau Collection, this rug exemplifies superior artistry and tradition. Doris Leslie Blau offers a broad and varied pricing spectrum, accommodating collectors and designers across a range of budgets-from modest vintage finds to rare, museum-worthy masterpieces. See less