Antique Bakhtiari Handwoven Tribal Rug, J73860

This Bakhtiari rug, originating from Persia around circa 1910, exemplifies the time-honored tribal weaving traditions of the Bakhtiari people in the Zagros Mountains. Crafted from wool on a cotton foundation, this rug showcases a brick-colored background with an ivory border, with red being the dominant hue.

The rug's design features typical Bakhtiari motifs, including a central field organized into a grid of small rectangular and square sections. Each segment within this grid contains distinct motifs, often stylized representations of flora and geometric figures, reflecting a blend of nomadic tribal and urban design influences. This characteristic combination sets Bakhtiari rugs apart from other Persian carpets that usually adhere to a single stylistic approach. Notable for their large cornucopia designs symbolizing abundance, Bakhtiari carpets also incorporate motifs like abstract geometric patterns, animal themes, and floral elements, influenced by European aesthetics, known as the Guli Farang design.

The color palette of this rug includes primary hues such as red, blue, and white, accented with yellow, green, and brown. The interplay of these colors within the small sections of the grid gives the rug a vibrant patchwork appearance. The borders enhance the overall design with distinctive features: a narrow inner border of alternating geometric shapes, a wider main border adorned with large floral motifs on a light background, and an additional secondary border with more geometric floral elements.

The rug displays a high degree of symmetry, especially evident in the central grid pattern, and a dense, intricate pattern throughout, demonstrating the weaver's exceptional craftsmanship. Using natural dyeing techniques, the artisans achieved rich and vivid colors that stand the test of time.

Historically, Bakhtiari carpets have been valued for their unique designs and the individuality of their artisans. Their designs have evolved since the 18th-century garden carpets, integrating motifs like stylized trees, showcasing a dynamic blend of creativity over the decades. The artistry inherent in Bakhtiari carpets also serves as a narrative medium, reflecting the identity and resilience of the Bakhtiari people.

This rug stands as a representation of the rich historical and cultural tapestry that antique Bakhtiari carpets are known for, offering a glimpse into the traditional weaving practices and artistic achievements of the time.