The city of Tabriz in northwest Persia has long been celebrated as a center for Persian arts, culture, literature, and especially its carpets, a tradition dating back to the 14th century. Positioned strategically, Tabriz carpets draw influence from neighboring Azerbaijan and Turkey, making them among the most diverse in the region. Antique Tabriz rugs, in particular, are known for their outstanding craftsmanship and deep ties to Classical Persian weaving traditions.

This c. 1930s Tabriz runner employs an unusually subtle, mellow colour palette, with muted tones of tan, soft greens and cornflower blues set against an ivory background, which, combined with its bold, graphic motifs, lends the weaving an unusually modern feel. One especially attractive feature is the creative quality of its drawing, with each medallion repeated across the field rendered in a different variety of colours and forms, framed by a decorative border.

Retained in very good condition for everyday use, with its original borders and fringes preserved on all sides, and with a mild age-related patina to its organic vegetable dyes.

An unusual yet understated piece, and a rare find in this long runner format, that would lend itself equally to a classic or contemporary interior.