Object Description
Unusual c. 1930s Qum Carpet
3.20 x 2.18 m
Unlike many of the other Persian rug-weaving cities, Qum only established itself as a centre of production in the early 20th Century, though its carpets quickly established a reputation for the unique creativity of their designs, as well as high-quality of the wool, often Merino, from which they are made.
This example, dating to c. 1930, is an especially unique example of its type, with an open, overall drawing – a delicate stamped floral design, framed by a series of repeated lozenge motifs in elephant grey – that boasts a charming sense of naivety, irregularity, and balance, particularly in comparison to other weavings of the same region and era, which tend to be more intricate and crowded. Its soft ivory field provided a wonderful backdrop to the wide array of vegetable-dyed colours, including tones of terracotta, sky blue, and muted caramel, framed by a restained border.
In very good to excellent condition, still retaining its outer borders and short fringes on both sides.
A true rare find, which would feel at home in a wide variety of settings.