Object Description
Contemporary Oushak Carpet, Handwoven in Iran
3.61 x 2.68 m
The weaving workshops of Western Anatolia, where Oushak carpets such as this piece were originally made, have a rich history, stretching back at least as far as the Early Modern era – as the 14th Century explorer Marco Polo once wrote, ‘here they make the most beautiful silks and carpets in the world, and with the most beautiful colours.’ During the 19th Century, these rugs began to be woven in Persia, tailored specifically for the Western market, and these are often seen in historic homes across the UK and Europe – this example, handwoven in Iran in lustrous wool, and with natural vegetable dyes, represents a contemporary reinterpretation of the classic designs of this period.
The carpet features a grand scale monochrome drawing, with a spacious, elegant composition, to which the delicate abrash – or, colour variation – in the pale sky blue tone of the field adds a great sense of depth and richness. One especially attractive feature is the uniformity of colour across the field and the border, rather than the traditional stark contrast, lending the work a feeling of space and balance.
A stylish example to complement a tasteful interior.