Afshar rug, second half 19th century

Measurements: 181cm x 120cm (5’11 x 3’11)

104 Knots per inch

Price: £800

There are some rugs that instantly grab my attention and almost without fail it is the older ones such as this that make the most impact. Rugs woven in the early 20th century can be very beautiful but once we get back into the mid 19th century they have an authenticity about them. The colours are better and the design is executed with more artistry. Without doubt it was the mass exports to the west that fed the decline of this artistry. This rug ticks ever box for me, it has saturated colours with strong reds, rich greens and an inky blue field. Three large serrated diamonds fill the central field with smaller diamonds fitting between them including one that sits at the apex. The smaller motifs includes a number of small birds and an array of flowers and other tribal motifs. This rug has everything a good rug should have and is quite finely woven with a well articulated design. I love it.

Condition:

Poor condition with a lot of wear, the centre has a hole and some areas of weakness that are supported with a linen backing which is well executed. The soumac ends are also sewn to a backing for extra support.