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This Museum Grade Antique Kerman rug presents a rare pictorial portrait of King Abbas, dating back to the Qajar Dynasty (1789–1925). Originating from Kerman, Iran, this medium-sized rug measures 230 × 142 cm and reflects the Persian tradition of weaving cultural memory into textile art. Unlike typical decorative rugs, it features a finely detailed oval medallion framing the enthroned portrait of Abbas Shah, a significant Safavid ruler known for his victories against Ottoman and Portuguese forces.
The rug’s composition centres on this historic figure, surrounded by a lush garden scene filled with flowering branches, nightingales, and symbolic foliage representing prosperity and paradise. Symmetry plays a key role, with mirrored elements guiding the viewer’s focus toward the portrait. The borders extend this narrative theme, incorporating dense floral and boteh motifs that enhance the pictorial storytelling rather than merely framing the piece.
Colour-wise, the rug is dominated by deep crimson and burgundy tones, balanced by ivory, soft pistachio green, muted black, and shaded earth tones. The portrait area features a lighter background, which highlights facial details, attire, and calligraphy with clarity. The palette has naturally mellowed over time, lending a harmonious and refined appearance.
This rug is a museum-quality collectible, with a known twin housed at the Tehran Rug Museum, underscoring its cultural and historical significance. As part of a private collection, this exceptional antique Persian pictorial rug exemplifies the artistry and storytelling tradition of Kerman weaving from the Qajar era.
Selected pieces can be viewed in the intended room so scale, colour and furniture relationships can be judged properly.
Additional unedited photos can be provided on request to help confirm colour, texture, pile and condition before an appointment.
Provenance, condition notes and authenticity guidance can be discussed for collectible and significant pieces.