Description

Antique Isfahan Rugs (or Esfahans Rugs), claim a very proud tradition among Persian rugs going back to Safavid times in the seventeenth century. Isfahan was then the capital of Persia and many of the court quality carpets of this period that survive today have been attributed to Isfahan. Their designs consist of sublimely delicate patterns of arabesque tendrils, palmettes, and cloud-bands in rich magentas, blues, and saffron golds. 19th century and early twentieth century antique oriental rugs from Isfahan continued the style and consummate technical virtuosity of their classical forerunners, although often with a softer, more decorative palette.

After Isfahan’s success in the garment industry, they expanded their knack for producing fine textiles by weaving some of the greatest rugs ever made in Persia. The city has long been a breeding ground for master weavers. The most famous of these is Sadegh Seirafian who spawned an Isfahan rug weaving dynasty that continues today. Antique Isfahan rugs feature enrapturing designs and luxurious materials that were also used to manufacture garments. Many of the finer carpets from the workshops of master weavers used silk wefts. However, the city’s earliest Isfahan rugs used fine hand-spun cotton.