Antique Persian Floral Allover Warm Tan Hand-Knotted Wool Rug – Circa 1880 BB7419 14'0" × 20'2" $65,000

A superb example of 19th-century Persian craftsmanship, this oversized Northwest Persian rug from the 1880s captivates with its mesmerizing allover rosette lattice design and masterful use of saturated natural dyes. Spanning an impressive 20′ × 14′, this carpet represents both artistic grandeur and technical excellence.

The field of the rug is densely decorated with a repetitive floral motif — each rosette meticulously outlined and arranged within a stepped lattice framework. This structured yet dynamic layout generates a rhythmic, almost architectural pattern that holds the viewer’s gaze. The visual effect is further enhanced by the slight variations in each bloom’s coloration and shape, a hallmark of handwoven authenticity.

The deep midnight blue background creates a dramatic contrast to the warm brick reds, terra cotta, creamy ivories, and icy blues of the floral rosettes. This rich palette, harmonized by the careful use of soft abrashed transitions, gives the surface a painterly depth and a subtle sense of movement.

Framing the intricate field is a series of elaborate borders. The primary border features an elegant scrolling vine and stylized floral motif in warm red and soft ivory, while the inner and outer guard borders echo the lattice theme, finely balancing the composition. The multiple layers of ornamentation showcase the weaver’s extraordinary attention to proportion and detail.

Woven with a tight, dense knot and using lustrous, high-quality wool, this rug demonstrates the enduring artistry and durability of Northwest Persian textile traditions. Its grand scale and ornamental complexity would have likely made it a prized commission for a significant domestic or ceremonial space.

Whether placed in a traditional interior or used as a sophisticated counterpoint to a contemporary setting, this antique carpet exudes timeless elegance and historic charm.

Rich in heritage and artistry, this handmade rug exemplifies the high standards of Doris Leslie Blau’s curated pieces. With a wide range of prices, Doris Leslie Blau makes exceptional rugs accessible to collectors and designers alike.