Fabulous Heriz Carpet, North-West Persia, Circa 1880, 3.94m x 2.66m

This is one of the most beautiful Heriz carpets I have had for a long time. Everything about it is exceptional. The wool quality, the dyes, the workmanship and design are all as good as it gets. It dates to the last quarter of the 19th century, the Renaissance period in Persian carpet weaving which was driven by demand from Europe and the United States. A closer look at the design suggests the influence of European decorative arts which surfaced in many Persian carpet designs during this period. In the field, large and expressively drawn acanthus leaves dance around flowering tendrils and palmettes in a painterly manner. There is a sense of constant movement as one's eye hovers over the design. In contrast, the border is a classic version of the 'turtle' border on a sapphire blue field, intricate and formally drawn. The designer seems to be telling us that this border, as beautiful as it is, should not distract us from the majestic field. Furthermore, the colours are simply wonderful, from the abrashed terracotta field to the greens, light blues, pinks, yellows and sapphire blue. There is also a subtle light brown which has corroded in places, a classic leitmotif of 19th century Persian carpets.  Unsurprisingly, this carpet has been cherished through the generations and has survived in remarkable condition. When I acquired it, it needed a deep clean as it had not had a bath for many years, after which the wool and colours glowed. Other very minor issues, including nicks to the edges, have been dealt with in our workshop. The carpet is in almost full pile condition and ready for immediate use.