Title:
 Bakhtiyari Rug
Southwest Persia
Size:
 4' 2" x 5' 9"
Circa:
 Dated 1312 AH (1896 AD)
Cat. #:
221
Description:

Most Bakhtiyari rugs currently on the market are floor rugs woven in village workshop for commercial export to Europe and theUnited States.

Genuine tribal Bakhtiyari weavings are very rare, ethnographically significant and highly collectible.

This rug is an ethnographically authentic tribal weavings.

It is generally thought to be an example from a little studied but clearly identifiable design group.

The rug bears the date 1312AH (1896 AD) and an inscription (on the left side of the rug) for what the Persians call ‘the five closest to god’, the names of Mohammad and his family.

The reddish-orange wefts and the general tonality of the weaving suggest an Afshar influence.

The field composition contain elements of the traditional Bakhtiyari vase design but the whimsical, asymmetrical treatment of these motifs result in a charming and imaginative example of tribal folk art.

Condition: Excellent.  The pile is full and in good condition. There are a few wrinkles or wear creases at the bottom.
Structure:
Warps:
Wool, natural shades of ivory, light brown and dark brown.  There are also small areas             where natural ivory and gray wool are plied together.
 
Wefts:
Wool, shades of red, orange and a combination of both colors plied together.
 
Knots:
Symmetrical.
 
Sides:

Wool wrapping in alternating shades of red and orange.
 
Ends:

Portions of the original braiding remain intact. There is slight wear at the bottom end.

 
Handle:

Very Supple.
Price:
$15,000