Afshar, second half 19th century

Measurements: 190cm x 127cm (6’3 x 4’2)

64 Knots per inch

Price: £1,100

This is one of the best Afshar rugs I have had to date. The palette of colours is wonderfully rich and the wool soft and lustrous. It is unusual to see such a well preserved kilim ends which add to it’s beauty. The central field is filled with stylised flowers and leaves which are clearly separated into horizontal bands where the design abruptly stops and a thin line of the background blue draws the boundary. This separation reminds me of Kuba cloth with its overall design punctuated by horizontal or vertical lines. The multiple vibrant borders are a feature of Afshar rugs and do justice to the rich central field. Balance between border and field is important, the field should dominate but the border should enhance. I think this piece meets all of the criteria of a great rug and it will be one I sell with a heavy heart.

Condition:

Good condition with just a little wear to the field and one small hole to the border. The ends and side are good and original.