Antique Bakhshayesh Rug 43623

Bakshaish Rug, Persia, Late 19th Century - Although the various motifs and the drawing of this outstanding carpet come from the repertoire of the Heriz family of Northwest Persian rugs, the weave, the layout of the design, and the gorgeous palette of autumnal colors combined with green and ivory all show that it is a Bahshaish from the neighboring region. Bakshaishes are unique in utilizing allover floral designs of small-scale village or tribal type to create room-sized pieces. Here the result is rather unusual, with various 'flame' palmettes, some surrounded by curling 'sickle' leaves, simply repeated symmetrically, alternating with oblong ivory cartouches, instead of being strung together as a unified centralized design. The interlacing vinescroll border is especially well done, set so effectively against a deep navy ground to contrast with the warmer palette of the field.