Object Description
Exceptional 19th Century Ziegler Mahal Carpet
4.97 x 3.93 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 handsome example, dating to the last quarter of the 19th Century, features a characteristically grand scale drawing, with a soft terracotta field providing a wonderful backdrop to the variety of gracefully aged vegetable-dyed colours in its scrolling vegetal design, including muted sage green, ivory and duck egg blue, framed by a wide border.
In very good condition for everyday use, this carpet retains its outer borders on all sides.
A beautiful example of a sought-after type of weaving, with a quiet formality would feel at home in any setting.