Large Palatial Isfahan Antique Rug. Late 19th, Early 20th c, S.E. Persia. Grand sunburst central medallion with exceptionally lush design and very fine weave. Highly decorative with astonishing amount of detail that fills the rug's full expanse. Heavy wear to some areas of Rug. 231" inches x 140" wide 20 FT x 12 FT. PROVENANCE: A Charleston SC Private Estate. **Pickup only or Shipping on this item offered through On the Go Transport 843-360-7472, Outward Bound 413-854-3676 or A.J. Williams (SC-local) 843-442-0462 or the UPS store at 843-202-0141. Please contact them or your own choice of shipper directly.** Historically, Isfahan was a weaving and cultural center of great importance with its culmination as the capital of Shah Abbas, the great patron of the arts in the 16th century, “The Golden Age of Persian Weaving”. Except for the period of the Afghan domination of the early 1700’s, Isfahan has long produced antique carpets of great technical skill and sophisticated aesthetics. Isfahan weavers of the 16th century were influenced by other important art forms including calligraphy, bookbinding, and mosaic work. During this era, the royal city’s Persian carpet designers introduced distinctly curvilinear, delicate floral forms and the refined classical antique carpet designs such as the arabesque, scroll, vine interlacement, vase, and hunting motifs. The high knot density antique carpets in which Isfahan excelled continued to be woven in the late 19th and 20th centuries, maintaining the original inspiration and attention to refinement and detail. The finest materials were procured and utilized including silk, lambswool (called kerke), and jewel-toned natural dyes to create collectible, investment-level antique Isfahan rugs. Isfahan rugs are also excellent for decorative purposes, employing soft pastel tones, abundant ivory backgrounds, and elegant, delicate design motifs. The final close pile cutting in conjunction with a tightly knotted foundation yield a thin yet strong construction and highly resolute, clear carpet patterns.

wear to some areas