Meshad Antique Allover Slate Blue Hand-Knotted Rug – Circa 1920 BB9193 13'7" × 15'7" $70,000

This antique Persian Meshad rug, hand-knotted circa 1920, comes from the weaving tradition of Mashhad in northeastern Persia. Its square room-carpet format and formal allover layout make it a refined choice for interiors that favor balance and quiet structure.

The slate blue field is packed with a fine light beige floral repeat, creating a surface that feels richly woven rather than centered on a single medallion. Blossoms, foliate sprays, and subtle crest-like accents appear in a steady rhythm across the center, giving the design a composed Persianate character and a sense of movement that remains controlled from across the room.

A broad light beige border frames the composition with larger blue floral motifs and slender guard bands that sharpen the architecture of the rug. Sand beige, warm taupe, and aged ivory soften the cooler ground, while the antique hand-knotted weave introduces gentle tonal variation. It anchors seating groups without overwhelming surrounding furnishings, making it especially suitable for formal living rooms, dining spaces, or a library.

Sourced from Doris Leslie Blau, this antique rug reflects the gallery’s longstanding dedication to preserving the finest examples of carpet artistry from around the world. Its remarkable craftsmanship and patina make it both a decorative statement and a collectible work of art.