Object Description
Antique Mahal Rug
2.04 x 1.30 m
The district of Mahal, in Northwest Persia, has long been an important weaving centre, and its late 19th and early 20th Century works are widely regarded as among the most desireable Persian carpets of the era. Pieces such as this example are associated with a category of weavings commissioned by the Manchester based company, Ziegler and Co, in the late 1870s, to be sold in the European market, adapting Classical designs for Western decorative tastes. These pieces, known for their fine weaves, large-format patterns, and innovative use of colour, can be spotted in grand historic houses across the UK and Europe.
This charming Mahal accent rug, dating to the early 20th Century, features a well-balanced, open design, worked in gracefully aged vegetable-dyed tones of ivory, cornflower blue and sage green, over a soft terracotta ground, and framed by a decorative r – a striking, unusual composition for a piece of this small format.
Retained in very good practical condition for everyday use, its colours have taken on a charming patina with age.
A characterful accent piece, to add design flair to a wide variety of settings.