All-Over Animal and Floral Carpet: A Masterpiece of 16th-Century Persian Weaving

All-Over Animal and Floral Carpet: A Masterpiece of 16th-Century Persian Weaving

Origin and Historical Significance

This extraordinary all-over animal and floral carpet is a rare surviving example of Persian textile artistry from the 16th century, most likely originating from Isfahan, Central Persia. Now housed in the prestigious Österreichisches Museum für angewandte Kunst (MAK) in Vienna, this magnificent piece offers an insight into the masterful weaving techniques and artistic brilliance of Safavid-era Persian carpets.

Dimensions and Technical Details

• Size: 185 x 120 cm (73 x 47 in.)
• Knot Type: Persian knot
• Knot Density:
  • 515,900 knots per square meter (approx. 333 knots per square inch)
  • 77 knots per 10 cm across the width
  • 67 knots per 10 cm lengthwise
• Materials Used:
  • Warp: Yellow silk
  • Weft: Double weft of light brown silk
  • Pile: Fine wool

Although only a fragment of the original masterpiece remains today—approximately one-eighth of the full rug—this section remains remarkably well-preserved. However, some of the brown wool areas have been affected due to the mordant used during the dyeing process, which caused deterioration over time.

Design and Symbolism

The carpet’s intricate design is a spectacle of nature and mythology, featuring a mesmerizing all-over pattern filled with dynamically arranged animals and floral motifs. Among the most striking figures woven into the carpet’s field are:

• A lion engaged in battle with an ox, symbolizing strength and power.
• A leopard, possibly representing agility and dominance.
• A dragon intertwined with a deer, reflecting the mythical and spiritual essence of Persian art.
• Large palmettes and delicate floral elements, creating a sense of balance and harmony.

The border of the carpet is just as captivating, consisting of three intricately designed bands. The main band features grand medallions adorned with palmettes and flowers, interconnected by cloud bands and elaborate arabesques, a hallmark of Safavid design aesthetics.

A Testament to Persian Weaving Excellence

This carpet fragment is not only a remarkable piece of history but also a testament to the incomparable skill of Persian weavers. The rich color palette, intricate patterns, and the interplay of natural and mythical elements showcase the artistic and technical mastery of Persian rug-making during the Golden Age of Safavid Persia.

This timeless masterpiece remains an inspiration for rug collectors, historians, and art lovers alike, preserving the grandeur and elegance of Persian craftsmanship for generations to admire.