Second half 19th century, 186 x 139 cm, North West Persia, Azerbaijan

In addition to the large Heriz carpets exported to Western countries as of circa 1870, smaller formats were produced in Heriz and its surrounding area. Examples piled in wool reflect the local tradition and were probably made for home use. The small Heriz silk rugs woven in designs based on individual cartoons by master draughtsmen were produced on commission. – Piled in wool in the dozar format, this Heriz displays a very rare design. A white-ground shield form takes up the whole of the deep blue field. Angular vines bearing stems and blossoms emanate in a spacious arrangement from a central star-shaped blossom drawn in the typical Heriz style. Four abstract human figures are standing at each end of the shield medallion. The surrounding field is filled with flowering stems. The blue-green main border and the two light red guard borders contain geometric, stylised vines attached to leaves and blossoms. – Small repaired areas, very good overall condition.