Object Description
Early Sarab Runner
3.98 x 1.05 m
Sarab, in the north-west of Persia, has long been known as an important weaving centre, known for the creativity of its designs and the wide variety of earthy colours used, as well as for borrowing elements from weavings of the nearby Caucasus region, lending these works a sense of charming tribal naivety and carefree spontaneity. Due to the size of the looms traditionally used in this region, Sarab is especially known for producing high-quality runners, of which this piece, dating to the 1880s, is a prime example.
Being an earlier carpet, this example boasts an especially fine weave and high-quality wool, which lends a crisp clarity to the drawing and a real sense of depth to its colours. It features a striking composition, especially in relation to its narrow format, with bold, graphic motifs in hues of tan, hazelnut, ivory and terracotta, well framed by five individual borders.
Retained in very good to excellent condition for everyday use – remarkable for a carpet almost 150 years old.
A sophisticated runner with the versatility to blend in a variety of spaces.