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The Silk Carpet with Arabesques, originating from Central Persia in the early 17th century, is a stunning example of Safavid-era craftsmanship. Currently housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, this luxurious carpet features 400,000 knots per square meter, with a silk warp, silk weft, and a silk pile enriched with gold and silver threads.

Belonging to the ‘Polonaise’ carpet group, its name stems from a historical misattribution in 1878, when several Persian rugs from the Polish Prince Czartoryski’s collection were mistakenly believed to be of Polish origin. Although scholars corrected this by 1891, the term ‘Polonaise’ persists.

Experts debate its precise origin, with Arthur Upham Pope suggesting it was woven in Joshagan, though its design sets it apart from other carpets in the same category. This masterpiece remains a testament to the artistic and technical brilliance of 17th-century Persian weavers.

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.