Antique Persian Allover Light Beige Hand-Knotted Wool Rug – Circa 1920 Afshar BB7153 5'3" × 9'10" $9,000

This vintage Persian Afshar rug, woven in the 1930s, exemplifies the artistry and cultural heritage of the Afshar tribes of southeastern Iran. Renowned for their inventive use of color and bold geometric forms, Afshar weavers created pieces that blend nomadic spontaneity with sophisticated design sensibilities.

The rug features a luminous ivory field densely decorated with a repeating boteh (paisley) motif, each boteh rendered in rich shades of madder red, deep indigo, earthy green, and touches of golden ochre. The boteh, a timeless symbol of growth and fertility, cascades across the field in rhythmic alignment, creating an impression of both movement and harmony.

Framing the boteh-filled ground is a striking series of borders. The main border, set against a midnight blue backdrop, is adorned with large, stylized diamond rosettes linked in succession, adding a strong architectural counterpoint to the curvilinear boteh motifs. Flanking this are multiple guard borders with zigzag and diagonal patterns in vibrant red, green, and ivory, further energizing the composition.

Hand-knotted in wool on a cotton foundation, the pile retains a soft, supple texture, showcasing the quality of Afshar craftsmanship. The rug’s palette, drawn from natural dyes, has aged gracefully to reveal a warm patina, balancing vibrancy with a subdued vintage character.

With its balanced geometry, tribal charm, and historical resonance, this antique Afshar rug is not only a decorative centerpiece but also a collectible piece of Persian textile art, perfect for both traditional and contemporary interiors.

A rare piece from the Doris Leslie Blau Collection, this rug exemplifies superior artistry and tradition. Doris Leslie Blau offers a broad and varied pricing spectrum, accommodating collectors and designers across a range of budgets—from modest vintage finds to rare, museum-worthy masterpieces.