Antique Persian Shiraz Gift-Sized Square Rug by Rug & Kilim, 1920-1929

Details

Description

Hand-knotted in wool and originating circa 1920-1929 from Persia, this 2x2 antique Persian Shiraz rug joins Rug & Kilim’s Antique … Read more Hand-knotted in wool and originating circa 1920-1929 from Persia, this 2x2 antique Persian Shiraz rug joins Rug & Kilim’s Antique collection. Featuring a rich terracotta field, a stepped midnight-navy medallion, and architectural corner spandrels, the composition translates the vibrant, folk-art elegance of *Fars* weaving into an exquisite gift-sized format.

On the Design:

From the historic Fars province of southwestern Persia, Shiraz rugs carry a celebrated legacy shaped by nomadic Qashqai and Khamseh weaving traditions. Celebrated for using rich, saturated dyes and soft, hand-spun local wool, Shiraz weavers blended rigid geometric structures with expressive tribal stylizations. Small-format *pushti* or gift-sized mats produced in tribal and village workshops provided artisans an intimate medium for artistic experimentation, compressing complex architectural schemes and regional symbolism into portable, gem-like textiles.

Rather than treating a small-format mat as a simplified accent, the weaver applies micro-scale spatial compression to craft a masterclass in figure-ground contrast and dual-axis symmetry. The warm madder-terracotta field acts as a sunlit Persian garden courtyard or *Pardis*, hosting a stepped midnight-navy medallion suspended like a dark sapphire jewel. At its core lies a multi-tiered lotus wheel, symbolizing creation and spiritual purity. Four floating ivory bouquets evoke stylized mountain irises and wild carnations or *Karanfil* reaching across the field. Stepped corner spandrels or *köşelik* function as architectural archways or *mihrab*, creating the illusion of peering through an arched portal into a blooming sanctuary. Enclosed by a cream border reminiscent of illuminated manuscript margins or *tazhib*, this exquisite play of color theory and proportional balance offers designers and collectors an extraordinary study in accent statements through Persian rugs.

Condition:

This antique Persian Shiraz rug enjoys good condition for its age and origin. See less