Object Description
Striking 19th Century Laver Kirman Carpet
4.30 x 3.04 m
Laver Kirman carpets are among the most cherished and distinctive of all Persian workshop creations. The workshops in Kirman, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, gained the favor of the Safavid court in the 17th century, making them some of the earliest Eastern carpets to enter the Western market. Over time, the weavers drew inspiration from European textile traditions, incorporating a unique color palette influenced by Classical French carpets. This influence is evident in this piece, with its soft champagne, duck egg blue, and burgundy tones all rendered in beautifully aged natural vegetable dyes.
This stunning c. 1870 example represents the pinnacle of 19th Century workshop weavings – its unusual and highly creative design is inspired by earlier 17th Century examples, with scrolling floral and vegetal motifs delicately worked over a soft ivory ground, and framed by a wide decorative border. The exceptional quality of its weave lends a fine clarity to its drawing, with a well-balanced, all-over composition – rare for carpets of its type and age – which gives a sense of space and harmony.
Despite some minor age-related restoration, finished to a high standard, this early Laver Kirman carpet is in very good practical condition for everyday use, with its outer borders complete on all sides; remarkable for an example over 140 years old.
A true work of art, this wonderful carpet is a rare find, and among the very finest we have had the pleasure of adding to our collection in some time.