Dragon 10 x 6'

Size: 10 x 5.11 ft. Origin: Kashan  Circa: 1830 Material: Pure Wool This antique Persian carpet is one of a few surviving examples and is in excellent condition, given its age. Its wonderfully animated imagery visually communicates the classic design favoured by the opulent Safavid court under Shah Abbas I's patronage. The design arrangement of a central medallion with quarter medallions in the corners, framed by a border of alternating cartouches and small lobed medallions, was developed in the royal design atelier, initially for book illuminated manuscript pages, and then adapted for use in architectural decorations. Ornamental motifs of the carpet consist of floral elements, birds, and quadrupeds that were popular in the decorative arts of the time. Several elements, such as the dragon and phoenix in the centre and the qilin with flaming shoulders and haunches in the corners, are Chinese but were absorbed into the Persian ornamental vocabulary. The dragon and phoenix represent benevolent visual symbols in Chinese art and assume new meanings in Iranian art. They were adapted to conform to the ancient animal combat iconography of the Middle East. The craftsmanship evident in this rug's planning, drawing, colour, and execution is extraordinary. Although the precisely laid-out design was commissioned using the most delicate wool on a cotton warp, the artisans who produced it were highly skilled and respected masters in their chosen craft. Authentic vintage and antique Persian rugs are hand-knotted with silk or wool. Each one is an exceptional work of art and one of a kind. Pictures are taken in natural light to portray the most realistic colours possible. Due to these rugs' handmade and preloved nature, slight imperfections and flaws are not defects. Our rugs are professionally cleaned.