first quarter 20th century, 216 x 149 cm, Western Central Persia, Chahar Mahal

A large tree extends up to the apex of the steep gable, its abundantly blossoming branches filling the upper part of the white field. The tree grows out of a tall vase at the lower end of the field. It is flanked by trees with slender trunks, flowering shrubs and two large poplars.

This Bakhtiari belongs to the group of so-called Khan carpets with an inscription at the upper end of the field. Here the inscription is a white written band on a red ground in a stripe above the border finish. It reads (translated from the Persian): "By order of the exalted Lord Sultan Mohammad Khan Moaven Homayoun (i.e.: assistant of the king), may he prosper, work of the Bakhtiari“. In 1993, we sold an almost identical example but without inscription.

Only slight signs of age, very good overall condition, original finishes.

RIPPON BOSWELL, A 38, 15 May 1993, lot 86