Unlike many of the other Persian rug-weaving cities, Qum only established itself as a centre of production in the early 20th Century, though its carpets quickly established a reputation for the unique creativity of their designs, as well as high-quality of the wool, often Merino or something of a similar category, from which they are made.

This early example, dating to c. 1930, is an especially unique example of its type, with a pattern derived from earlier Tabriz carpets of the 19th Century, with scrolling floral and vegetal motifs in an all-over design across the field – an unusually balanced, spacious composition, to which the rare uniformity of colour across the field and the border (as opposed to the usual stark contrast) lends a great feeling of openness. The palette employs a wide range of organic vegetable dyes, including cornflower blue, ochre red and tan, set against a soft ivory ground, framed by a wide border.

Retained in very good condition for everyday use, with its borders preserved on all sides – its dyes have taken on a charming patina with age.

A charming example of its type, this Qum carpet would feel at home in any setting.