17th-Century Central Persian Vase Carpet

A Monumental Floral Masterpiece from the Safavid Era

At the height of the Safavid dynasty in the late 17th century, Persian carpet weaving reached one of its most refined and artistic peaks. Among the most impressive examples of this period are large-scale vase carpets from Central Persia—textiles that combine architectural scale with intricate floral ornamentation. The carpet described below is a remarkable specimen preserved in the Museum of the Shrine at Mashhad, one of Iran’s most important religious and cultural institutions.

Technical Specifications

• Origin: Central Persia

• Date: Late 17th century (Safavid period)

• Collection: Museum of the Shrine at Mashhad

• Dimensions: 802 × 573 cm (316 × 226 in.)

• Knot type: Persian (asymmetrical) knot

• Knot density:

   

  • 252,000 knots per sq. m.

  • 163 knots per sq. in.

  • 40 knots per 10 cm (width)

  • 63 knots per 10 cm (length)

   

• Warp: Multicoloured silk

• Weft: Single beige cotton

• Pile: Wool

Historical Context: Safavid Golden Age

The late 17th century was a time when Persian carpet weaving was supported by royal workshops and elite patrons. Under Safavid rulers, cities such as Isfahan, Kashan, and Kerman became renowned for producing large, decorative carpets intended for palaces, mosques, and shrines.

These carpets were not merely floor coverings—they were symbols of status, devotion, and artistic excellence. Large carpets like this example were often commissioned for sacred spaces, where their scale and design created a visual harmony with the architecture.

Design and Artistic Features

The field of this carpet is filled with a dense floral composition, a hallmark of classical Persian design. Instead of a single central medallion, the field is organized by tall, elegant vases placed throughout the design.

Key design elements:

• Vase motifs:

  The tall vases act as vertical anchors within the field, each holding a bouquet of stylized flowers. This creates a sense of structure and rhythm across the large surface.

• All-over floral pattern:

  The entire field is covered with blossoms, leaves, and scrolling vines, reflecting the Persian love of garden imagery—often interpreted as a symbolic representation of paradise.

• Narrow floral border:

  The border, decorated mainly with daisy-like flowers, appears visually slender compared to the expansive field. This design choice emphasizes the grandeur and openness of the central area.

Symbolism of the Vase Motif

In Persian art, the vase is a powerful symbol:

• Represents abundance and life

• Evokes the paradise garden concept found in Persian culture

• Suggests refinement, elegance, and spiritual harmony

When repeated across a carpet, these vases transform the surface into a stylized garden, a concept deeply rooted in Persian poetry and architecture.

Structure and Craftsmanship

The carpet’s technical structure closely matches another known example from the same period, suggesting a shared workshop or regional origin.

Notable structural features:

• Silk warp in multiple colours:

  Indicates high-quality workshop production and careful planning.

• Fine knot density:

  At over 250,000 knots per square meter, the carpet demonstrates a level of precision typical of elite Safavid pieces.

• Wool pile:

  Provides durability and softness while allowing for rich, natural dye absorption.

Importance in Persian Carpet History

Large vase carpets from the 17th century are among the most celebrated achievements of Persian textile art. They represent:

• The peak of Safavid court design

• The fusion of architecture, garden imagery, and textile art

• The technical mastery of Persian weavers

Today, such carpets are extremely rare and are mostly found in major museums or prestigious private collections.

Why This Carpet Matters Today

For collectors, historians, and designers, carpets like this offer:

• A window into Persia’s artistic golden age

• Inspiration for modern interior design

• A tangible link to centuries-old craftsmanship traditions

Even contemporary handmade rugs often draw inspiration from these classical Safavid compositions.