Antique Kashan Persian Rug 43541

Antique Kashan, Persia, late nineteenth centuryAntique Kashans like this are highly prized for the classical perfection of their design and their stunning color. Here a complexly contoured medallion with cartouche finials hovers in the midst of a lavish array of vines and palmettes surrounded by two main borders. At intervals, the vines of the field undulate into the space of the inner border. The use of the rich color, especially the play of blue against red with ivory accents is especially notable. The precise, controlled drawing is every bit the equal of the palette, just as this piece is virtually the equal of the classical Persian masterpieces that inspired it.