Antique Dated Northwest Carpet

Period: 1270=1854
Origin: Northwest
Dimensions: 275 x 450 cm

The surface data of this extraordinarily rare 1854 dated Northwest Persian carpet provides definitive evidence of the transition between classical workshop traditions and the rising prominence of village artistry in the Azerbaijan region. A detailed visual analysis of the composition reveals an incredibly dense and rhythmic “all-over” pattern of stylized boteh or cypress-like motifs, arranged in meticulous horizontal and vertical rows across a clean ivory field. This structural balance between the repetitive, highly detailed field and the starkly contrasting dark indigo border reflects a technical precision and narrative complexity rarely preserved in mid-19th-century examples.

The color palette is masterfully balanced, featuring a luminous ivory ground that serves as a pristine canvas for the rich pops of madder red, ochre yellow, and indigo blue found within the individual field motifs. These saturated tones, achieved through the expert application of natural dyes nearly 170 years ago, exhibit a chromatic depth and clarity that have remained remarkably vivid over time. The inclusion of a wide, midnight-blue primary border decorated with rhythmic geometric flowering vines creates a powerful visual frame, a hallmark of the sophisticated color theory practiced in Northwest Persia during the middle of the 19th century.

Structural data indicates the use of high-quality, hand-spun local wool, which has developed a soft, lustrous patina and subtle “abrash” (natural tonal variation) throughout the ivory and blue sections. These organic color shifts and the characteristic crispness of the stylized motifs definitively distinguish this antique masterpiece from modern or mechanical reproductions that lack such material integrity and depth of pigment. The presence of an authentic woven date (1854) and the natural weathering of the wool fibers serve as physical verification of its mid-19th-century origin and its status as a significant cultural and historical artifact.

Ultimately, this dated Northwest Persian carpet stands as a premier example of 19th-century textile art, representing a peak in both technical and aesthetic achievement. Its technical integrity, rare inscribed date, and historical significance make it a priceless cultural treasure for global collectors. The powerful graphic presence and historical weight of this piece make it not only a serious investment but a breathtaking centerpiece that preserves the legacy of the Northwest Persian weaving traditions for future generations.

Stock No : 2846

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