Silk Kilim: 17th-Century Persian Masterpiece at the Textile Museum, Washington, D.C.
Silk Kilim at the Textile Museum, Washington, D.C.: A 17th-Century Persian Masterpiece
The Silk Kilim housed in the Textile Museum, Washington, D.C., is a rare and exquisite example of Persian tapestry-woven artistry from the early 17th century. Originating from Central Persia, likely Kashan or Isfahan, this magnificent piece showcases the superior craftsmanship of Persian weavers during the Safavid era.
A Masterpiece of Persian Weaving
- Origin: Central Persia (Kashan or Isfahan)
- Date: Early 17th century
- Collection: Textile Museum, Washington, D.C.
- Dimensions: 227 x 131 cm (89 x 52 in.)
- Density: 112 warp threads per 10 cm
- Materials: Silk warp; weft of silk intertwined with gold and silver threads
Unlike the knotted Persian carpets of its time, this kilim is an example of a tapestry-woven rug, a technique known for its intricate designs and delicate craftsmanship. According to historical records, a Polish Carmelite monk who visited Kashan in 1608 documented seeing both knotted carpets and woven kilims, affirming the presence of this technique in Persia at the time.
Symbolism & Design: A Battle of Mythical Creatures
The Silk Kilim stands out not only for its technical brilliance but also for its elaborate mythological and symbolic motifs.
Central Medallion: The Phoenix and the Dragon
The focal point of the kilim is a breathtaking central medallion depicting a phoenix and a dragon locked in combat. This dramatic scene, common in Persian and Chinese mythology, symbolizes the eternal struggle between good and evilor the balance of opposing forces in nature.
Animals in the Field & Borders
Surrounding the medallion, we find an enchanting mix of animal motifs, each rich in meaning:
- Four cranes in flight, adding movement and grace to the design
- Two ducks positioned in cartouches on either side of the medallion, signifying peace and fidelity
- Large palmettes embellishing the remaining sides of the central field
- Four kylins (mythical Chinese creatures) in the spandrels, reinforcing the blend of Persian and East Asian artistic influences
The border of the kilim is just as elaborate, featuring a procession of animals:
- Lions and panthers, symbolizing strength and power
- Hinds (deer-like creatures), representing gentleness and grace
- Animal heads embedded within smaller medallions, each adding to the mystique of the rug
A Kilim of International Renown
This Silk Kilim is not an isolated masterpiece—similar kilims exist in world-renowned collections:
- The Islamisches Museum in East Berlin acquired a nearly identical kilim in 1914
- Another piece with a comparable style and design is housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
According to M.S. Dimand, a leading scholar in Islamic textiles, this kilim—whose coloring is more subdued than the New York counterpart—likely originates from a workshop in Isfahan, one of the greatest artistic hubs of the Safavid dynasty.
The Significance of the Silk Kilim in Persian Textile History
This 17th-century Persian kilim represents a fascinating intersection of weaving techniques, artistic expression, and cultural symbolism. Unlike knotted rugs, kilims rely on precise interweaving to create stunning patterns without using pile. The use of silk, gold, and silver threads further highlights the luxury and exclusivity of this piece, likely commissioned for royalty or noble patrons.
Today, the Silk Kilim of the Textile Museum, Washington, D.C., remains one of the finest examples of Safavid-era textile artistry, admired by collectors, historians, and rug enthusiasts worldwide.
Explore More About Persian Kilims and Carpets
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