Inside the Rare Floral Lattice Design of Antique Joshagan Carpets

Origin and Historical Significance

This exceptional antique Persian rug originates from Joshagan, a historic weaving centre located within the Isfahan region of central Persia (modern-day Iran). Dating back to the 17th century, this piece represents the golden era of Safavid Persian carpet artistry — a period widely recognised as one of the most influential and sophisticated times in the global history of handmade rugs.

Joshagan rugs from this era are particularly admired by collectors, museums, and interior designers for their distinctive lattice-based floral patterns, refined craftsmanship, and exceptional durability. Pieces of this calibre are increasingly rare and are often preserved in private collections and prestigious exhibitions around the world.

Technical Specifications

• Origin: Joshagan, Isfahan region, Persia

• Period: 17th Century Safavid Era

• Collection: Private Collection

• Dimensions: 269 × 163 cm

• Foundation:

  • Warp: Unbleached cotton

  • Weft: Unbleached cotton

• Pile Material: High-quality hand-spun wool

• Knot Type: Traditional Persian (Senneh) knot

• Knot Density:

  • 172,900 knots per square metre

  • 111 knots per square inch

  • 47 knots per 10 cm (width)

  • 37 knots per 10 cm (length)

The knot density reflects a finely woven rug that balances durability with intricate artistic detail, demonstrating the remarkable skill of master weavers from the region.

Design and Artistic Features

One of the most distinctive characteristics of this Joshagan rug is its large lozenge (diamond) lattice pattern, a celebrated design element rarely reproduced in later generations. The rug features elegant garlands of stylised leaves and blossoms arranged across a rich deep-blue field. Within each diamond-shaped compartment, larger floral motifs bloom, creating a harmonious rhythm that reflects classical Persian garden symbolism.

The lattice design symbolises order, balance, and the structured beauty of Persian garden landscapes — themes deeply rooted in Persian artistic philosophy.

Border Composition and Decorative Framework

Surrounding the central field is an impressive wide main border decorated with flowing arabesques and intricate floral patterns. This ornamental frame is enhanced by two narrow guard borders featuring delicate floral designs set against a contrasting white background.

This triple-border arrangement is widely regarded as a hallmark of 17th-century Persian weaving, demonstrating both technical precision and aesthetic sophistication. The balanced composition directs attention inward toward the main design while simultaneously framing the rug as a complete artistic masterpiece.

Materials and Craftsmanship Excellence

The use of hand-spun wool combined with a strong cotton foundation ensures longevity and resilience. The natural fibres allow the rug to age gracefully, often developing enhanced colour depth and softness over time. Antique Joshagan rugs are particularly valued for their ability to maintain structural integrity while preserving intricate design details for centuries.

Collectability and Investment Value

Authentic 17th-century Joshagan rugs are considered highly collectible due to:

• Limited surviving examples

• Unique lattice floral design rarely reproduced today

• Historical Safavid artistic influence

• Exceptional hand-knotting craftsmanship

• Strong demand among collectors, museums, and luxury interior designers

Such rugs not only serve as decorative statement pieces but are also viewed as tangible cultural investments representing centuries of Persian artistic heritage.

The wide border of arabesques and flowers is inserted between two narrow white guard bands with the pattern of flowers, the typical framework of 17th-century pieces.