Antique Afshar Bagface

Period: Late 19th Century
Origin: Iran
Dimensions: 52 x 88 cm

This rare late 19th century Afshar bagface highlights a powerful and rhythmic geometric composition featuring a series of distinctive “boteh” or paisley-inspired motifs anchored within a deep midnight indigo field. This structural balance between the angular, stepped outlines of the primary figures and the vibrant madder red serrated borders reflects the pinnacle of the South Persian tribal weaving tradition. Textiles of this era from the Afshar tribes are world renowned for their extraordinary graphic intensity and a sophisticated nomadic vocabulary that represents a distinct artistic language developed over centuries of tribal heritage.

The color palette is masterfully balanced featuring a primary navy ground that serves as a dramatic canvas for high contrast shifts of madder red ivory and forest green. These rich and enduring tones achieved through the expert application of natural dyes over 130 years ago exhibit a chromatic strength and a saturated depth that are hallmarks of the finest late 19th century tribal productions. The inclusion of a sophisticated primary border containing a rhythmic sequence of stylized floral blossoms and geometric guard stripes creates a precise visual frame that highlights the superior wool quality and technical finesse.

Structural analysis indicates the use of premium hand spun local wool with a characteristically sturdy handle and a rich historical patina. The exceptional clarity of the decorative outlines specifically the minute internal floral details within each hexagonal compartment and the precisely rendered symmetry of the latch-hook edges distinguishes this antique masterpiece as an authentic late 19th century Afshar production. Ultimately this piece represents a peak in both technical endurance and graphic majesty for global collectors of nomadic textiles.

Stock No: 1687

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