Oversized Persian Meshad Antique Rug BB5875 15'6" × 20'10" $220,000

This circa-1880 antique Mashad Persian rug features an elaborate all-over design of floral abstractions and arabesques in gradations of beige against a field of abrashed blue. Staples of Oriental rug design, such as the boteh, can be seen throughout the intricate pattern. A paisley shape representing a leaf or a pinecone, the boteh is a classic Persian rug motif. The late 19th century antique oversized 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 oriental 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.