Antique Karadja (Karaja, Qarajeh) rug, Iranian Azerbaijan, early 20th century. 4ft 8in X 6ft 2in

The distinctive pattern of the rugs of the Northwest Iranian village of Karaja is a center sunburst medallion vertically flanked by cruciform shields. In this exemplary, century-old representative, this traditional format is boldly defined by deeply saturated hues of forest green and rich teal sparkling against a midnight blue field, and enhanced by extremely clear rendering of each motif. The robust design is wonderfully counterbalanced by the relative delicacy and refinement of its surrounding border.