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Iranian Carpet carpets are among the rarest and most fascinating creations of 16th-century Safavid Persia. Distinguished by their bold central medallions, rich floral symbolism, and extraordinary depictions of European figures and ships, these carpets reflect a unique moment of cultural exchange between Persia and the Portuguese world during the Age of Exploration. Woven with exceptional technical skill and narrative depth, they stand not only as masterpieces of Persian art but also as woven records of early global trade, diplomacy, and cross-cultural encounter.

The 17th-century Silk Kilim from Kashan is a remarkable Persian textile masterpiece, now housed in the Österreichisches Museum für angewandte Kunst (MAK), Vienna. Woven entirely from silk, this exquisite kilim showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of Kashan’s artisans during the Safavid dynasty. Its intricate design, resembling a Persian miniature painting, features delicate floral patterns, human figures, and winged motifs. As one of the finest examples of Persian flatweave art, this kilim highlights the rich heritage of kilim weaving, which predates knotted rugs. A true testament to Persian artistic excellence, it remains an invaluable historical artifact.

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.