Antique Tabriz carpet, Azerbaijan, NW Iran, late nineteenth century, 10 ft 05 in x 16 ft 06 in (3.18 m x 5.03 m)

While antique Tabriz carpets are known for their fidelity to classical Persian rug design, rarely do they approach such forerunners as closely as this magnificent example. Here a multi-lobed circular medallion filled with arabesque detail spews spiraling vinescrolls into a rich terracotta field bounded in turn by blue-ground vinescroll cornerpieces. The running vine and palmette border is much smaller in its scale and detail, nicely contrasting the grandeur of the field. The palette of the carpet as well as its design is faithful to classical tradition, relying as it does on the harmonious interplay of rich reds, soft greens and blues, and tan or ivory.