Khamseh rug, circa 1900

Measurements: 242cm x 162cm (7’11 x 5’4)

80 Knots per inch

Price: £900

The Khamseh confederacy was an amalgamation of Persian, Turkic and Arab tribes created as a counter to the Qashqai who were a powerful force in southern Persia. Attribution is hard enough without getting into sub divisions but I believe this to be the work of the Baharlu with its ivory ground, turkish knots and narrow borders. It is certainly a striking piece with the giant boteh dominating the main field, closer inspection shows the spaces between crammed with smaller boteh, flowers and tendrils. It is quite a fine rug, remarkably thin in construction with a relatively high knot count. I often make the distinction between tribal and decorative rugs, this piece has good tribal credentials while ticking the decorative box with its ivory ground and allover boteh design.

Condition:

Low pile throughout with the red foundation wefts showing through the ivory ground. The sides are complete but the ends have retreated a little and are in need of some tidying. There is also a small repair at one end.