Antique Bakshaish Rugs 41942

Bakshaish Rug, Persia, Late 19th Century - An allover pattern of bold, graphic medallions in soft reds, blues, apricots, and saffron unfolds across the deep cocoa field of this spectacular antique Bakshaish. Indeed the cocoa ground almost seems to form a secondary allover star pattern. Although all these design elements are of classical Persian derivation, the drawing and articulation the forms has the abstract clarity and impact of the finest Kazak or Konya rugs. The boldness of the field is beautifully balanced by the fine scale and drawing of the classical turtle border on an ivory ground. Bakshaishes are generally prized for such qualities, but even among its type, this example is exceptional.