'Halvai' Bidjar Rug, Circa 1910, 2.14m x 1.33m

The towns and villages in Persian Kurdistan produced wonderful rustic rugs and carpets throughout the 19th century and into the 20th century. Bidjar was a major centre of Kurdish weaving during this period. Known for their solid structure, wonderful dyes and archaic designs, 19th century Bidjar rugs have been admired and sought after by both collectors and decorators. Our rug is from the group known as 'Halvai' Bidjars which were produced from the mid-19th century up to the 1920s. 'Halvai' Bidjar rugs can be identified by their fine weave, a structure with minimal warp depression and low clipped pile. This piece certainly matches that description. It dates to the early 20th century when Persian rug weaving was experiencing challenges to its traditional dyeing and weaving methods which also impacted the weavers in Kurdistan. For example, the Bidjar weavers had transitioned to employing cotton warps and wefts. However the dyes and the craftsmanship survived intact. In our rug, the classic book cover design is beautifully executed with a central anchor medallion floating above a lovely abrashed terracotta field with matching spandrels. The light blue main border shimmers and is decorated with a meandering vine and leaf design. Note the other wonderful natural dyes too, a delightful pink, yellow, green and sapphire blue. It is an impeccably composed piece which has survived with in perfect pile, original selvages and kilim ends.