Antique Serapi rug, Azerbaijan, NW Iran, late 19th century, 10 ft 10 in x 20 ft 08 in (3.30 m x 6.30 m)

Antique Heriz-Serapi, late nineteenth century. A grand medallion design spewing palmette vinescrolls and finials virtually rules the field of this arrestingly beautiful antique Serapi. Vinescroll cornerpieces give the soft camel ground a hexagonal form, while they echo the rich palette of reds, terracotta, greens, and soft blues of the main floral elements. A vinescroll border provides a framing contrast in scale, while its dramatic blue-black ground reprises the ground color and graphic impact of the central medallion. Serapi carpets represent the finest grade of Heriz, but this magnificent example is extraordinary for its bold drawing and color, even among Serapis. Nazmiyal Collection