Title:

Ferdows-Baluch
Ferdows-Khorasan Region
Northeast Persia
Size:

3'10"x6'10"
Circa:
 1900
Cat. #:
328
Description:

This rug is one of a very rare group of weavings geographically assigned to Eastern Persia, from Sistan to the more northern areas of Khorasan Province.

Its palette is unlike most of those typically accepted as ‘Baluch’, although a comparable tonality and color range is found in some Sistan region work.

The design theme of the entire composition is uncompromisingly floral.

The field combines elements of the mini khani and herati patterns.

These elements are very impressively displayed on a indigo ground.

The border has alternating flower heads, geometrically rendered scrub motifs and serrated leaves.

A meandering vine in a rich shade of green unites the various border motifs. 

For more discussion of the design group, please go to a newly posted article on this site at Articles of Interest to Collectors: A Rare and Unusual Rug.

Condition:  Excellent.  The pile is full with slight oxidation to some shades of green and brown.  There is a scattering of minor repairs.
Structure:
Warps:

Cotton, natural.  There is no warp displacement (depression).
 
Wefts:

Cotton, natural.  There are two wefts between rows of knots.
 
Knots:
Asymmetrical inclined to the right.
 
Sides:

Not original.  Multiple foundation warps are bundled into a single cord and wrapped with brown wool.
 
Ends:

Not original.  Ends are stabilized to prevent pile loss.
 
Handle:

Moderately firm.
Price:
$3,500
Literature:

MacDonald, Brian, Tribal Treasures of the Black Tent.
(A rug with similar design published at plate # 157, page 218).

Homer, J. P.,   Exclusively Belouch  (an exhibition catalog)
(A rug with similar design published at plate # 36)

Cole, Thomas,    Hali 117, Outback Afshar.
(A rug with similar design identified as Afshar, see plate # 7 at page 86)