Laver Kirman carpets are among the most highly prized, and most unique, of all Persian workshop pieces. The workshops of Kirman, well known for the high quality of their weavings, won the royal patronage of the Safavid court in the 17th Century, and became some of the earliest Oriental carpets to make their way into the Western market. Later on, its weavers, in turn, took a certain influence from European textile traditions, incorporating a distinct palette, inspired by the colours of Classical French carpets – they are among our favourite categories of weaving, and we search all corners of the world to find the most interesting examples.

The creativity and charming naivety of this early Laver Kirman carpet is due to its creation before the industrialisation of workshop weavings in Kirman at the turn of the 20th century. The well-balanced, settled design is enhanced by the unusually open ivory field, which draws together the richly varied colour composition. The muted, vegetable dyes have aged nicely and give the colours a special feeling warmth and depth, with tones of burgundy, sage green and indigo.

This carpet is in well-preserved original condition for everyday use with minimal patination and still retains all its  borders on all sides – a remarkable feature for a rug of this age.

An elegant example with a quiet formality which would lend itself to any setting.