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Title

Afshar Rug
South West Persia

Size

3' 4" x 3' 7 "

Circa 1900
Cat. No.

305

Description

This small rug displays classic and well-established Afshar design elements.

There are, however, a couple of features that distinguish it from the norm.

First, the snow white ground color of the field is comparatively rare. Most examples are seen in blue, some are in red.

Secondly, the field has no secondary motifs. Only the essential elements of the design construct are shown.

The absence of secondary motifs together with the stark white of the ground visually strengthens the impact of the primary design elements.

The composition is quite geometric and has excellent balance and a pleasing symmetry.

Note how the corner spandrels are carefully proportioned so as to allow the flowers to flow from the vase in a natural and unimpeded manner.

Condition

The entire surface pile is in good condition. There are areas of low pile but the foundation is not damaged or compromised in any manner. The red wefts tend to accentuate the low pile areas. There is moderate oxidation to wool that is dyed brown.

Structure
 
Warps:
Wool. Two-ply undyed ivory. The warps are moderately depressed.
 
 
Wefts:
Wool. Two-ply dyed red. Two shots.
 
 
Knots:
Symmetrical
 
 
Sides:
Five warps are bundled and wrapped in red wool. The wool wrapping is not original and is in very good condition.
 
 
Ends:
Both ends are stabilized with only slight loss of pile.
 
 
Handle:
Moderately supple.
Price $3,800.00
Literature

Opie, James, Tribal Rugs of Southern Persia, p. 183. (a very similar example)

Eiland, Murray, Oriental Rugs from Pacific Collections. (p. 79, pl. 46, p. 80, pl. 48 and pl. 49)

Collins, John, Flowers of the Desert. (pl. 35 and pl. 36)

 

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