Persian Antique Allover Floral Ivory Hand-Knotted Wool Rug – Circa 1880 BB7265 11'2" × 16'10" $60,000

A striking example of 19th-century Persian artistry, this large antique Senneh carpet, woven circa 1880 in northwest Iran, displays the finesse and precision that made the rugs of Senneh (now Sanandaj) prized possessions in Persian and European interiors alike. Masterfully hand-knotted in fine wool, the carpet boasts exceptional craftsmanship and a deeply intricate design, emphasizing symmetry, balance, and harmony.

The field is composed of an elaborate compartmentalized medallion layout, where ten elongated cartouche-shaped medallions alternate between ivory and madder red backgrounds, each filled with stylized floral rosettes and meticulously rendered boteh (paisley) motifs, symbolizing fertility and life. These compartments are connected by an elegantly scrolling latticework in deep indigo, which grounds the pattern and adds depth.

The central axis of the rug is emphasized with larger, more detailed medallions flanked by slightly smaller yet equally intricate companions, creating a sense of visual rhythm across the expanse. The florals—highlighted in jewel tones of turquoise, navy, coral, ivory, and gold—are rendered with crisp precision, illustrating the weaver’s deep understanding of spatial composition.

The palette is both rich and aged, combining earthy reds, inky indigo, creamy ivory, and muted greens and blues. The dyes, now mellowed by time, lend the rug an organic warmth and an elegant patina that reflects its age while maintaining vibrancy.

The rug is framed with an exceptionally detailed multi-stripe border, the main stripe showcasing a procession of medallions alternating with floral sprays, flanked by narrower guard borders filled with abstract vinery and small floral motifs. This layered composition creates a strong frame around the central field while reflecting the inner complexity.

As expected from Senneh pieces, this rug features an extremely fine weave with a single-wefted structure and asymmetric knots—hallmarks of high-quality Kurdish weaving from the region. The back reveals tight knotting and superb definition in design execution. The texture is crisp and firm, a testament to the high-quality wool used.

This exquisite antique rug, sourced from Doris Leslie Blau, showcases a rare blend of history and craftsmanship. Doris Leslie Blau offers a broad and varied pricing spectrum, accommodating collectors and designers across a range of budgets—from modest vintage finds to rare, museum-worthy masterpieces.