Large Oversize Persian Ardebil 12’4” x 19’8”

Oversize large area Persian Ardabil Rug ca. mid-20th century.
Semi antique large rug. Hand knotted wool pile cotton foundation

Mid 20th century Persian Ardabil. Center medallion with corner spandrels – all in a covered Herati motif. The Herati (a.k.a. mahi-mahi) is quite a unique pattern with notable evolutionary succession in the last 500 years. Carpets from the 16th and 17th century exhibit larger-scale sickle-shaped leaves in a lattice orientation. Since, the motif has transformed into a significantly scaled-down form of predecessors.

This carpet does magnificent justice to the true progression of the Herati motif. A decidedly independent pattern, free of specific design elements within the field, with sole exception being outlined inverse color form. Remarkably self-sustaining, the field pattern claims territory in a confident and sprawling, yet subtle, manner. This is evident in each quadrant spandrel, and the main center medallion. A powerful and well controlled effect within a large and oversize rug.