The Exquisite 16th-Century Persian Prayer Rug at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York is home to an extraordinary collection of Persian rugs, among which one of the most treasured pieces is a stunning 16th-century prayer rug from northwest Persia. This magnificent example of Persian craftsmanship stands as a testament to the rich artistic and spiritual traditions of the era.

A Masterpiece of Persian Weaving

This meticulously crafted prayer rug, measuring 161 x 105 cm (63 x 41 inches), showcases the pinnacle of Persian weaving techniques. The sheer complexity of its structure is astounding, with an incredible 1,000,000 knots per square meter (645 knots per square inch)—demonstrating the high level of precision and artistry of Persian master weavers.

  • Knot type: Persian knot
  • Density: 100 knots per 10 cm across and lengthwise
  • Material composition:
    • Warp: Light brown cotton
    • Weft: Double-wefted natural brown wool
    • Pile: Fine wool, enriched with silver thread wrapped around a silk core

Symbolism and Design

One of the most striking features of this rug is its cupola-shaped mihrab, a defining element of prayer rugs. The mihrab, a niche in a mosque indicating the direction of Mecca, is beautifully adorned with an intricate arrangement of:

  • Palmettes
  • Flowing leaves
  • Delicate flowers
  • Elegant cloud-bands

These motifs are hallmarks of Safavid Persian art, reflecting both the artistic grandeur and spiritual significance of the period.

Sacred Inscriptions in Praise of Allah

Adding to its sacred aura, this rug features inscriptions in Arabic, meticulously woven into its borders and central frame. The upper cartouche prominently displays the words:

"Allah is the Most High, the Great."

Verses from the Qur’an, as well as other inscriptions in praise of Allah, surround the mihrab, reinforcing the rug’s spiritual significance. The script used for these inscriptions is Nasr, an ornamental Persian calligraphic style.

The Luxury of Silver Brocading

A remarkable feature of this prayer rug is its silver-brocaded detailing. The outlines of the mihrab, cloud-bands, and some of the palmettes are woven with shimmering silver thread wrapped around a silk core, enhancing the visual richness of the design. This luxurious embellishment highlights the prestige and opulence associated with Safavid Persian textiles.

A Legacy of Persian Artistry

This extraordinary prayer rug is not only a functional piece for worship but also an artwork of immense historical and cultural value. It reflects the golden age of Persian carpet weaving, a period when master artisans combined technical brilliance with deep spiritual symbolism.

Today, this magnificent 16th-century Persian prayer rug remains preserved in the esteemed collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, where it continues to inspire and captivate visitors from around the world.

Discover the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of Persian rugs at Persian Carpet Gallery, where history, art, and culture weave together in every piece.