Antique Persian Kirman Rug BB5929 13'9" × 20'5" $90,000

This circa-1880 antique Persian Kirman rug has an over-all densely spaced design of serrated leaves, palmettes and floral vinery in shades of green, inky blue and beige around a central medallion ringed by cloud bands. A peach border containing more palmettes and leafy vinery surrounds the main design of the richly ornate antique carpet. Rug production began in the Southeast Persian city of Kirman during the Safavid period, peaking in the late 19th and early 20th centuries following an increased demand in America for Kirman Persian rugs runner.

Antique carpets are sought-after collectors’ items for a number of reasons, including their broad range of designs, an elaborate palette, use of natural dyes and fibers, great tensile strength and expert color combinations. The beautiful rugs are typically cotton-foundation with high knot densities, and frequently have intricate all-over floral patterns – as seen in this particular carpet. Golam Hussein, Sherefat Khan and Arjomand are among the most well-known 20th century Kirman designers.