Antique Sultanabad Persian Floral Allover Warm Tan Hand-Knotted Wool Rug – Circa 1880 BB4331 11'2" × 18'4" $75,000

This rug displays the signature traits of Sultanabad artistry—an expansive, slate-blue field laid out in a sprawling, all-over geometric pattern. A series of angular split-leaf forms and stylized floral medallions populate the surface, creating rhythm and visual intrigue across the ground.

Surrounding the field is a border of deep, warm red palette, richly animated by palmettes and flowering vines. This classic framing complements the bold central design and offers a striking contrast in hue and scale.

Hand-knotted in durable, high-quality wool, the rug showcases the skilled craftsmanship of Sultanabad weavers. The tight knotting and robust pile reflect both longevity and tactile depth.

The weave is characteristically generous and supple, allowing for larger-scale motifs—a hallmark of Sultanabad rugs compared to their Heriz or Serapi counterparts, which tend toward curvier, more classical forms.

The rug’s color palette—a serene combination of slate blue, warm red, muted yellow, and accents of soft ivory—exudes a refined, vintage elegance. This sophisticated coloration aligns with the Ziegler-influenced style that softened traditional Persian palettes for Western tastes in the late 19th century.

Subtle abrash—natural, layered variations in dye—adds a living quality to the surface, enhancing its depth and textural richness.

Sultanabad—later known as Arak—became a major center of carpet weaving in the 19th century. The arrival of European firms like Ziegler & Co. in the 1880s catalyzed a shift toward designs and color palettes tailored to Western interiors, driving the refined aesthetic visible in this rug.

The all-over geometric floral layout, combined with the gently softened coloration, positions this rug as both historically meaningful and visually arresting—an ideal foundation for elegant interiors seeking timeless allure.

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.