Intricate Antique Persian Blue Floral Mahal Rug, Country of Origin: Persia, Circa Date: 1920
This outstanding antique Persian Mahal rug from the Sultanabad region of western Iran presents the characteristic allover floral arabesque design of its tradition at a particularly high level of refinement. The deep navy-blue field is densely populated with a flowing system of curvilinear floral vines, palmettes, and botanical forms rendered in warm ivory, soft terracotta-red, and touches of gold and teal. The composition has the lush, garden-like quality associated with the finest Mahal production — every inch of the field animated with organic botanical life, yet the overall pattern remaining legible and harmonious. A wide terracotta-red border carries an elaborate secondary floral meander that frames the field with appropriate grandeur. This piece also belongs to the broad family of Sultanabad and Mahal carpets, admired for spacious floral drawing and easy decorative authority.
The palette is one of the most beautiful in the antique Persian canon: the deep navy provides immense richness and depth, while the warm ivory and red tones of the floral motifs create a luminous contrast that gives the whole surface a glowing, jewel-like quality. Age has softened the tones to a beautiful mellow harmony, with the natural abrash in the blue field adding additional visual interest. Buyers who appreciate this rug may also want to browse Persian rugs and antique rugs for similarly refined room-size carpets with strong historical character.
This rug brings immediate authority and warmth to a significant room. Its large format and densely patterned field are ideal for a formal living room, a grand study, or a dining room where it can serve as the central organizing element around which all other furnishings are arranged. It pairs beautifully with antique or traditional furniture, as well as with more contemporary interiors that benefit from the grounding presence of genuine antique textile art. For help choosing the right scale for a formal living room or dining room, see our rug size guide.
Nazmiyal’s expertise in antique Persian carpet production from the Sultanabad region is unparalleled, and this Mahal example represents one of the finest in their carefully vetted collection. If you need a different size or color, explore our custom rug service.
