Antique Persian Silk Tabriz Haji Jalili Area Rug, Country of Origin: Persia, Circa Date: Late 19th Century – Nothing has a brilliance and shimmer like silk. The brilliant, finely-detailed, silk Tabriz carpet by renowned master rug weaver Haji Jalili. His antique rugs were commissioned court pieces during the last part of the 19th century. This spectacular antique silk rug retains its colors and detail as brilliantly as the day it was made and is an excellent example of the antique Persian Tabriz rugs produced by master weavers.
Silk was prized for is durability and ability to be spun into spiderweb thin threads that could be woven into designs of spectacular detail. It also takes dyes beautifully, which produces a sheen that is only rivaled by metallic. However, unlike metals used in woven pieces, the silk keeps it shine and does not tarnish with age.
The design of this antique Persian silk Tabriz Haji Jalili rug is based on creating contrast both in color and in the design elements. The bold reds contrast with the midnight blues of central medallion and corners. In addition, the floral elements in the borders of the rug contrast in scale with the floral elements that are in the medallion and field of the rug. This makes the elements of the field stand out and appear bolder. However, this is balanced by the amount of space taken up by the borders.
This rug has a formal quality that is enhanced by the inclusion of formal design elements and the precision with which the details are carried out. Although this rug is a spectacular sight to see from a distance, one can only truly appreciate the attention to detail that went into it by examining it closely. It is easy to understand why the works of master weavers were highly prized and only available to select members of society.
This highly collectible carpet has withstood the test of time magnificently. Persian Tabriz rugs by Hadji Jalili were as prized when they were first produced as they are today. They were, and still are considered a worthy investment. This exquisite piece is not only amazing work of art, it is an important piece of art history. It is a rare find and an excellent addition to any collection.