Persian Pictorial Prayer Rug / Kashan or Tabriz Style Rug
Other / Textile and Floor Covering (Often displayed as wall hangings or accent rugs in traditional interiors) · Traditional Oriental / Persian (Late 19th to Mid 20th Century aesthetics) · Traditional weaving workshop origin, likely Persian master weaver, unsigned but characteristic of central Persian workshops.
Type
Other / Textile and Floor Covering (Often displayed as wall hangings or accent rugs in traditional interiors)
Style Period
Traditional Oriental / Persian (Late 19th to Mid 20th Century aesthetics)
Material
Natural fibers, primarily wool pile hand-knotted onto a cotton foundation (warp and weft), featuring natural and chemical dye combinations.
Age Estimate
Estimated circa mid-20th century (1940s-1960s) based on the dye saturation and knot consistency.
Dimensions
Estimated small-to-medium accent size, approximately 3 feet by 5 feet (90 cm x 150 cm), standard for accent prayer or pictorial mats.
Origin
Middle East / Iran (Persia), sharing classic Persian workshop iconography.
Designer/Maker
Traditional weaving workshop origin, likely Persian master weaver, unsigned but characteristic of central Persian workshops.
Value Estimate
Estimated retail market value between $400 and $1,200 depending on knot density, exact age, provenance, and overall condition.
Description
This exquisite pictorial rug features a classic Mihrab (prayer arch) architectural design filled with elaborate floral vases, blossoming branches, and symmetrical pairs of birds and peacocks. The rich terracotta border frames a creamy ivory central field, creating a striking visual centerpiece suitable for traditional and transitional interior settings.
Key Features
Distinctive architectural prayer niche (Mihrab) design, detailed pictorial motifs including birds and floral urns, intricate multi-tiered borders, and knotted fringe ends.
Color & Finish
Rich earthy palette featuring terracotta/rust red, cream, muted greens, deep blues, and subtle browns with an aged patina.
Construction Method
Hand-knotted using traditional Persian (Asymmetric) knots, finished with hand-braided and secured fringe ends.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Exceptional hand-knotted pile density and intricate pictorial detail indicating master artisan craftsmanship.
Wood Grain & Species
Not applicable; woven textile product without wood components.
Surface Treatment
Low-pile wool surface showing authentic textural wear, soft hand-feel, and time-softened natural dye variations.
Upholstery Details
Not applicable as this is a woven textile rug rather than upholstered furniture.
Hardware & Fittings
Not applicable for this woven textile product.
Origin & Provenance
Middle East / Iran (Persia), sharing classic Persian workshop iconography.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition with minor, expected pile wear consistent with age, intact selvages, and slightly frayed fringe ends at the bottom.
Interesting Facts
Prayer rugs traditionally feature a niche pointing toward Mecca, and pictorial elements like birds and trees symbolize paradise and spiritual growth in Persian art.
Cultural Significance
Represents centuries-old Persian weaving traditions, highly valued in Islamic art history and a staple of fine oriental interior decoration.
Similar Pieces
Kashan prayer rugs, Tabriz pictorial rugs, and Isfahan silk-inlaid carpets; distinguished by knot count, specific floral motifs, and color saturation.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle professional rug cleaning only, vacuum with suction-only attachment (avoiding the fringe), rotate periodically to ensure even wear, and keep out of direct harsh sunlight.
Value Estimate
Estimated retail market value between $400 and $1,200 depending on knot density, exact age, provenance, and overall condition.
Sustainability Notes
Crafted from renewable natural materials (wool and cotton), biodegradable, and representing generations of sustainable, heritage-based handcrafting.