Antique Tabriz Persian Floral Allover Sage Hand-Knotted Wool Carpet – Circa 1880 BB7151 8'10" × 12'5" $48,000

This exceptional 19th-century Persian Tabriz rug is a masterclass in elegance, balance, and refined craftsmanship—an enduring symbol of the renowned Tabriz weaving tradition. Woven circa 1880, it radiates an understated opulence that reveals itself in its harmonious palette, crisp floral motifs, and the meticulous precision of its execution.

At the heart of this rug lies a subtly rendered, nearly tonal medallion that blossoms effortlessly into an open field of swirling floral motifs. The palette is built around a sublime interplay of powdered aquamarine, taupe, mink brown, and muted ivory, which lend the composition a soft, aged patina while maintaining clarity and depth.

The field is populated with a rhythmic scatter of palmettes, petaled blossoms, and floriform sprays, arranged with the kind of effortless symmetry that speaks to the Tabriz school’s technical and aesthetic prowess. The design appears to dissolve into the background in places, creating a dreamlike movement across the surface—almost as though the pattern is blooming through a veil of mist.

A series of elegant floral borders encircle the field, grounding the floating composition with graphic precision. The main border features alternating rosettes and stylized lotus flowers, framed by narrow guard borders adorned with petite palmettes and diamonds. The use of darker tones in these borders introduces a restrained contrast, sharpening the rug’s overall visual architecture without interrupting the serenity of its presence.

One of the standout elements of this rug is its soft blue-green field, which plays beautifully against the warm, earthen secondary tones. The natural dyes have aged gracefully, resulting in a watercolor-like quality that enhances the rug’s antique character. The wool pile is finely knotted and low-cut, with a delicate sheen that lends light to the composition depending on the viewing angle.

Woven in Tabriz, one of the most important historic weaving centers in Persia, this piece exemplifies the region’s high technical standards. The asymmetrical knotting (Persian knot) and precise drawing of the motifs confirm the work of highly skilled artisans. Even the subtle irregularities in the design—hallmarks of handwork—add a sense of soul and uniqueness.

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.