Large Fine Blue Herati Fish Design Antique Persian Senneh Rug 72475

Magnificent Large Size Fine Weave Blue Color Herati Fish Design Antique Persian Senneh Rug, Country of Origin / Rug Type: Antique Persian Rug, Circa Date: Early 20th Century – The gorgeous blue background of this small, Persian rug from the early twentieth century allows you to enjoy the elegance of a fine rug in a smaller space. The field of the rug has a repeating pattern that is known as the Herati design, which refers to the town of Herat. This is a beautiful and captivating design, but many are not aware that it also has a fascinating story.

The Herati design is sometimes called the “Mahi” motif, which translates into “fish” in Farsi. This is curious because, in many cases, the design does not appear to have any fish at all. The design is typically represented as a floral motif in the center with a diamond border and four acanthus leaves surrounding it. Things are not as they first appear with this design.

Scholars believe that the fish design references the story of Mithra, the ancient God of contracts, covenants, and good luck. The legend is that Mithra was born on a lotus flower, and the surrounding fish cared for him as an infant. The blue background of this rug seems to refer to water.

Scholars also believe that the central floral design was once a human face. When Islam took over Persian, artists were no longer allowed to represent human figures, so the face became a floral motif. The most common floral motif is the lotus flower, which represents rebirth, but you will also see other styles. The fish became acanthus leaves, a symbol of immortality. Another fascinating aspect of this rug is the abstract floral design on the border, an area that is usually reserved for other geometric shapes and symbols.

This rug is a fascinating piece for many reasons. Its repeating motif gives it a formal feel that is softened by the abstract florals in the border. This rug makes a perfect accent rug, or it could be an excellent way to incorporate a Persian rug into a smaller area. The one thing of which you can be certain is that it makes a charming addition to your home or office.