Antique Heriz rug, Azerbaijan, NW Iran, 19th century, Nazmiyal  Collection. 4. ft 06 in x 5. ft 10 in (1.37 m x 1.78 m)

Antique Silk Heriz, late nineteenth century - While the antique Heriz carpets of Northwest Iran (Azerbaijan) are famed for their grand, highly geometric designs, the silk examples of this group tend to be far more elegant and classical in their drawing, as this magnificent carpet demonstrates so well. The field has an allover pattern of split calyx arabesques. The arabesques done in gold are arranged as quatrefoils, with pairs of crimson arabesques pendant beneath them. The remaining areas of the rich navy ground are filled with tiny flowers and smaller palmettes. Quartered quatrefoils serve as subtle cornerpieces. A delicate, linear flowering vinescroll comprises the man border, all set against an ivory ground with red guard borders for added framing effect. The lush color here is not only due to the quality of the dyes, but above all to the luxuriant silk pile which maximizes the intensity and depth of the palette.