Iran National Art Museum Silk Rug
Origin: Tabriz, Early 16th Century
Current Collection: Iran Bastan Museum, Tehran
Dimensions: 204 x 195 cm (80 x 77 in.)
Knotting Technique: Turkish Knot
- Knots per Square Meter: 693,000 (447 knots per square inch)
- Density: 90 knots per 10 cm across; 77 knots per 10 cm lengthwise
Materials:
- Warp: White Silk
- Weft: White Silk
- Pile: Silk intertwined with luxurious gold and silver threads
The Silk Medallion Carpet is a magnificent example of Persian artistry from the celebrated weaving workshops of Tabriz. Its intricate craftsmanship and unparalleled design reflect the cultural and artistic sophistication of the Safavid era, a golden age for Persian carpet-making.
A Masterpiece of Design
The carpet’s field is adorned with a harmonious blend of Persian and Chinese influences, including cloud-bands reminiscent of the Chinese 'tchi' motif, which lend a sense of dynamic movement to its design. The delicate interplay of motifs brings the carpet to life, as animals—perhaps fish—can be seen nestled in the corners. Above the flowering branches of the central medallion, flying fish and birds add a whimsical touch, creating a mesmerizing tableau.
Exquisite Materials and Craftsmanship
The use of gold and silver threads in the silk pile elevates this carpet to a level of luxury reserved for royalty and nobility. The soft sheen of the silk combined with the metallic threads creates an ethereal luminosity, making the medallion and surrounding motifs appear almost three-dimensional.
The Border: A Frame of Elegance
The carpet’s border is a testament to the weaver’s attention to detail. Like the central field, it features delicate patterns enriched with gold and silver accents, seamlessly blending with the overall design. The border acts as a perfect frame, enhancing the visual impact of the medallion and unifying the composition.
A Window into History
This exquisite Silk Medallion Carpet is not just a decorative piece but a cultural artifact that tells the story of a time when Persian weavers were regarded as the finest in the world. Today, it is preserved at the Iran Bastan Museum in Tehran, where it continues to inspire awe with its beauty and craftsmanship.
This masterpiece stands as a symbol of the artistic and cultural achievements of 16th-century Persia, embodying elegance, innovation, and unparalleled skill in textile art.
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