1880’s Antique Persian Kirman Rug – Blue & Ivory Botanical Masterpiece BB7517 10'3" × 14'2" $75,000

This exceptional 19th-century Persian Kirman rug, dating from the 1880s, is a sublime example of the region’s celebrated artistry and refined craftsmanship. Woven in the historic weaving center of Kerman in south-central Persia, the carpet exudes an elegance born of balance, symmetry, and a sophisticated color palette.

The allover design is a breathtaking tapestry of floral abundance. Creamy ivory blossoms and palmettes unfurl gracefully across a rich cerulean blue field, their sinuous stems and scrolling vines intertwining in a rhythmic, almost musical flow. At the heart of the composition, a symmetrical medallion subtly emerges—not as a bold statement, but as a quiet center, harmonizing the dense garden of motifs surrounding it.

Four majestic willow-like boteh arrangements anchor each quadrant of the field, their cascading fronds framed by delicate rosettes, leafy tendrils, and star-shaped blossoms. The pattern speaks to the Persian love of paradise garden imagery, evoking fountains, orchards, and the poetic ideals of eternal spring.

The border system is equally intricate: a broad sandy-ivory main border winds with stylized floral garlands, rosettes, and arabesques, flanked by finely drawn guard stripes, each articulated with petite lotus blossoms and vinery. The interplay of soft beige, deep indigo, and gentle sky-blue lends the piece a refined yet inviting aura, making it an ideal focal point for both formal and contemporary interiors.

Hand-knotted from the finest wool, the rug’s velvety pile, meticulous detailing, and enduring dyes attest to the technical mastery of late 19th-century Kerman weavers. More than a floor covering, this carpet is a work of art—a woven ode to nature, balance, and timeless Persian elegance.

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.