Extra Large Authentic Persian Meshad Handmade Wool Rug BB5433 16'9" × 24'3" $180,000

This circa-1880 antique Persian Meshad rug features a striking, astract central medallion in light blue, filled and surrounded by dense floral abstraction details. Four large, inky blue diamond shapes frame the central motif symmetrically, adding contrast to the otherwise pale palette. Staples of Oriental rug weaving, such as the boteh – a paisley shape reprecenting a leaf or a pinecone – can be seen throughout the antique carpet. The antique rug comes from Meshad, the administrative seat of the Khorassan province throughout the centuries, and home to many well-known Oriental rug workshops. The towns of Amoghli, Khamenei, Makhmalbaf, Saber and Zarbaf produced antique Persian extra large area rugs that feature both symmetrical and asymmetrical knots, as well as multiple borders with eclectic color palettes. Designs are based on classical models and feature color schemes ranging from traditional burgundies and midnight blues to the more contemporary tints of ice blue and beige.