Sarab (or Serab), in the north-west of Persia, has long been known as an important weaving centre, known for the creativity of its designs and the wide variety of colours used, as well as for borrowing elements from weavings of the nearby Caucasus region, lending these works a sense of charming tribal naivety and carefree spontaneity. Due to the size of the looms traditionally used in this region, Sarab is especially known for its high-quality runners, of which this piece, dating to the 19th Century, is a prime example.

The design employs an understated caramel colour ground, with a all-over diamond lattice motif across the central field, in gracefully aged vegetable-dyed colours ranging from shades of demin blues to ochre and terracotta reds, framed by a series of individual, creatively drawn borders – a restrained, well balanced composition.

This early Sarab runner is retained in very good condition for everyday use, the plain outer borders are fully retained on all sides – remarkable for a piece of this age – though with some age-related older restoration done to one section of the border.

A handsome early piece, to add personality and style to a variety of settings.