Woven in Qum during the 1930s, this carpet comes from a city that only began creating rugs in the early 20th century, quickly gaining recognition for its use of exceptionally fine wool and precise designs. Being an earlier piece, made before the commercialisation of carpet weaving, it boasts a much greater quality of wool—either Merino, or a similar grade—as well as craftsmanship, lending a crisp clarity to its drawing.

The design is a sophisticated all-over pattern employing a stamped paisley design known as a ‘Mother-and-Child Botteh’ pattern, in which one smaller botteh (or, paisley) motif is enclosed within a larger one; the botteh itself is originally an ancient Zoroastrian symbol, representing the evergreen cypress tree, associated with everlasting life. Here, the pattern is rendered with a lyrical fluidity that lends movement and rhythm to the composition. Its palette is particularly refined: sky blue, sage green, terracotta, and chestnut tones are set against a neutral ground and framed by a wide, decorative border. As an early rug, it boasts a wonderful variety of high-quality vegetable dyes, lending depth and charm to its tones and enhancing the overall visual harmony.

This fine c. 1930 example is retained in very good condition practical for everyday use, with its outer borders retained on all sides.

A wonderful decorative piece, among the most interesting examples of its type we have had for some time.