Antique Persian Floral Allover Oversized Soft Beige Hand-Knotted Wool Rug – Circa 1900 BB7119 14'0" × 22'10" $140,000

This extraordinary antique Persian Bakhtiari rug, dating from the early 20th century, is a testament to the masterful artistry of the Bakhtiari tribal weavers of southwestern Iran. Oversized and impeccably handwoven, this rug presents a compelling blend of intricate geometry, bold floral motifs, and saturated earthy tones that elevate its visual impact and historical value.

The rug’s main field features a rhythmic arrangement of stepped medallions, each intricately filled with stylized floral bouquets. These motifs repeat in staggered rows across the expanse, creating a mesmerizing lattice structure. The design reflects the classical Persian garden layout—a “khesti” pattern—symbolizing paradise on Earth, and frequently seen in Bakhtiari carpets from the Chahar Mahal region.

Its color palette is distinguished by warm amber, cream, chocolate brown, muted indigo, and soft celadon green. The nuanced abrashed ground, especially evident in the blues, showcases the organic hand-dyeing techniques used over a century ago. The subtle shifts in shade lend a painterly quality to the design and underscore the rug’s handmade authenticity.

The border is equally engaging: a wide band adorned with repeating botanical medallions, flanked by complementary guard borders filled with stylized vines and rosettes. The frame provides a harmonious enclosure to the intricate center field without overpowering it.

Crafted from high-quality wool and boasting a dense, durable weave, this Bakhtiari rug was built to endure generations of use. The natural lanolin in the wool still lends the surface a soft sheen, further enhanced by its well-preserved condition and professional size reduction.

Whether displayed in a grand hall, dining room, or library, this antique Bakhtiari offers both decorative elegance and cultural substance. Its rich palette and dynamic symmetry are characteristic of tribal ingenuity transformed into functional art.

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.