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The Ardebil Carpet, dating back to 1539, is one of the most celebrated examples of Persian art, traditionally believed to have originated from the mosque at Ardebil, the resting place of Sheikh Safi al-Din and Shah Ismail I. It is a medallion-style carpet with intricate designs and inscribed verses by the poet Hafiz. The carpet was likely created under the supervision of Maqsud of Kashan, a prominent carpet maker of the time. Despite some uncertainty about its exact origin, the carpet’s beauty and craftsmanship have made it a revered piece in the Victoria and Albert Museum’s collection. It remains one of the greatest carpets ever created, showcasing the splendor of Persian weaving traditions.

The “Garden” carpet, originating from northwest Persia in the early 16th century, is the earliest known example of the garden design. Likely crafted in Heriz, it features a vibrant layout of canals with fish, ducks, medallions adorned with birds, deer, and blossoms, all framed by a floral border. Woven with wool, cotton, and silk, it boasts intricate craftsmanship with 307,200 knots per square meter. This historic masterpiece, once part of the Figdor Collection, now resides in the Österreichisches Museum für angewandte Kunst in Vienna.