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Silk Floral Safavid Carpet at the Österreichisches Museum für Angewandte Kunst (MAK), Vienna
The Silk Floral Carpet at the Österreichisches Museum für Angewandte Kunst (MAK) in Vienna is a stunning example of 17th-century Persian craftsmanship, likely originating from Kashan. This luxurious Polonaise carpet, woven with silk, silver, and gold threads, features an intricate central medallion, arabesques, floral motifs, and cloud-band patterns. With an impressive 266,800 knots per square meter, it exemplifies the artistic sophistication of the Safavid era. Once prized by European aristocrats, this masterpiece remains a significant symbol of Persian textile heritage and timeless elegance.
Silk Medallion Carpet – A Masterpiece of Kashan in Nationalmuseum, Munich
This exquisite 16th-century Kashan silk carpet, housed in the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum, Munich, is a rare example of Persian weaving mastery. Measuring 244 x 150 cm, it boasts an extraordinary 810,000 knots per square meter, crafted entirely from silk.
What makes this piece unique is its wide border with large palmettes, surrounding a striking central medallion, and the absence of an outer guard band, creating a seamless design. Floral motifs blend harmoniously with Chinese-inspired elements, reflecting cultural influences of the Safavid era.
Among only a few surviving examples worldwide, this rug remains a testament to the luxury, technical brilliance, and artistic heritage of Persian craftsmanship.
Iran National Art Museum Silk Rug
This exquisite Rug, crafted in Tabriz during the early 16th century, is a hallmark of Persian artistry and sophistication. Preserved at the Iran Bastan Museum in Tehran, it measures 204 x 195 cm and features an extraordinary density of 693,000 Turkish knots per square meter.
Made with a white silk warp and weft, its silk pile is enriched with luxurious gold and silver threads. The design showcases a central medallion surrounded by intricate cloud-bands inspired by Chinese motifs, along with depictions of animals, birds, and possibly fish. The delicate border, adorned with gold and silver accents, frames the piece beautifully, enhancing its visual appeal.
A symbol of the Safavid era's artistic excellence, this carpet reflects the unmatched skill and creativity of Persian weavers, offering a glimpse into a golden age of textile craftsmanship.
The Magnificent Multiple Medallion Rug
The Multiple Medallion Carpet is an exquisite Persian masterpiece from the 10th century, currently housed in Vienna's Österreichisches Museum für angewandte Kunst. Measuring 540 x 270 cm, it features an intricate weave of 280,000 Persian knots per square meter, crafted with unbleached cotton warp, yellow and brown cotton weft, and a wool pile.
The design showcases a series of unique medallions adorned with vibrant colors, flowering shrubs, and elegant arabesques. Birds resembling peacocks, pheasants, and ducks are intricately woven into the blue medallions, while cloud bands fill the background with subtle charm. The border includes triple-layered bands with cartouches and floral rosettes, enhancing its visual appeal.
This carpet is a testament to Persian artistry, blending exceptional craftsmanship with timeless beauty, making it a cultural and historical treasure.
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