Persian Antique Allover Geometric Ivory Hand-Knotted Wool Carpet – Circa 1880 BB3245 12'10" × 20'5" $100,000

This 19th-century Persian Bakhtiari rug (circa 1880) is a striking example of the tribe’s renowned craftsmanship, showcasing both bold geometry and rich coloration. The design is structured around a classic garden panel (khesti) layout, where the field is divided into a mosaic of compartments—here rendered as hexagons and diamonds—each filled with unique stylized motifs.

Within these panels, one finds a vibrant interplay of floral rosettes, abstracted shrubs, and symbolic tribal emblems, giving the rug both decorative appeal and layers of cultural meaning. The composition avoids strict repetition, with each compartment hosting a distinct design, lending the carpet a dynamic, almost improvisational rhythm.

The palette is quintessentially Bakhtiari, dominated by deep madder reds, indigo blues, ivory, and warm earth tones, with occasional accents of soft gold and teal. These natural dyes retain remarkable vibrancy for their age, testifying to the quality of materials and techniques employed by the weavers.

Framing the central field is a series of borders of varying widths, the widest of which is adorned with stylized floral medallions on an ivory ground. This border not only balances the densely patterned interior but also highlights the weavers’ mastery of contrast and symmetry.

Handwoven in the Zagros Mountains of western Persia by semi-nomadic Bakhtiari tribes, this rug embodies the group’s distinctive weaving tradition—robust, durable construction paired with bold artistry. Its generous proportions and commanding presence make it a superb example of tribal Persian rug weaving at its finest, suitable as both a collector’s piece and a statement in interior design.

As part of the curated collection at Doris Leslie Blau, a brand celebrated for its dedication to quality and design heritage, this rug exemplifies their commitment to originality and artisanry. Doris Leslie Blau offers a vast selection of antique, vintage, and contemporary rugs in a wide range of styles, materials, and price points, making fine textile art accessible to both collectors and designers alike.