Antique Tabriz Handwoven Traditional Rug, JF5377

This antique rug originates from Persia and features a Tabriz design. The rug follows a traditional style with a camel-colored background and a navy border. Beige serves as the main color throughout the design. Crafted from wool on a cotton foundation, this rug dates back to approximately 1920. Tabriz rugs are known for their sophisticated and intricate patterns, a reputation they have upheld for centuries.

Historically, Tabriz emerged as a prominent weaving center in the 1500s, particularly during the Safavid Dynasty. The city, situated near the Turkish border, was central to trade and attracted many accomplished carpet designers. Tabriz carpets often feature elaborate designs with floral motifs, medallions, and geometric patterns. Common elements include palmettes, weeping willows, and cypress trees, all meticulously hand-knotted from high-quality materials like fine wool and sometimes silk.

Despite periods of historical turmoil, including a decline during the Afghan invasions in the early 18th century, Tabriz's carpet weaving traditions experienced a revival in the late 19th century. By the 20th century, the design of Tabriz rugs had evolved to include delicate floral patterns and more complex motifs, aligning with changing tastes while preserving traditional elements.

This particular rug exhibits a highly detailed design with a dense array of repeating floral and vine motifs. Its palette primarily consists of assorted blue and beige tones, complemented by earthy accent colors. The intricate pattern extends across the entire field, creating a continuous, almost scroll-like arrangement. The rug's main border, which is the widest, features an elaborate floral and vine motif that is larger in scale compared to the central field. This is flanked by narrower guard borders with their own geometric or floral patterns, framing the central design.

The rug’s symmetry is notable, with mirrored patterns evenly distributed across both its length and width—an important characteristic of traditional Tabriz rugs that contributes to their balanced and harmonious appearance. The use of wool on a cotton foundation enhances its durability while preserving its aesthetic appeal.

This Tabriz rug stands as a remarkable example of Persian craftsmanship from the early 20th century, characterized by its sophisticated design and adherence to traditional techniques and motifs.