Antique Serapi carpet

Object Description

A magnificent all over design antique Serapi carpet, with a fine weave and exceptional pile height over the majority of this rare antique carpet.  The more open design of floral palmettes combined with the early ‘Harshang’ motif create a stunning pattern.  Stunning faded pale blues, sage greens, rustic brick reds and muted pinks combined with ivory wool are famous dyes for these earlier tribal carpets from Heriz in Northern Persia.  These finer early Serapi examples from the mid to late 19th century are increasingly rare to come across in such original condition.

Object History

Private collection.

Object Literature

Dating from 1870-1880 it is in truly excellent order for its age of around 150 years old.  A rare and collectable Serapi, these early carpets still command high prices in the US and across the world in top auction houses.  Visit our barn showroom or request a home viewing to see this Serapi carpet up close with a private viewing.

Antique Serapi carpets are more intricate finer tribal weavings hand-woven by Azerbaijan Turkish inhabitants close to the city of Heriz in North-West Persia. They are famous among collectors because of their vivid vegetable dyes or soft earth tones that are woven on a geometric pattern. In terms of design, drawing, and colouration – Serapi carpets are clearly part of one and the same tradition as Heriz weavings. Despite being a distinct antique rug style, which originated as a Northwest Persian adaptation of early Sarouk Farahan medallion, but with a more geometric and abstract village sensibility.

Object Condition

The condition is extremely good, with a finely cut high to medium wool pile height all over.  This rare early tribal carpet is in impeccable condition, as we can see from the additional images, just how high the wool pile is which is quite remarkable.  Carpets from Heriz were often named ‘The Iron rugs of Persia’ for their durability and tough wool, this piece enhances that reputation.  Both of the ends/fringes have some minimal losses, and we shall be securing both ends professionally to secure them further.  The minor ivory outer border is complete at one end, and missing a couple of rows at the other end, you can see this on the main image.

Object Details