Antique Tabriz rug, Azerbaijan, NW Iran, Nazmiyal Collection, 8. ft 04 in x 11 ft 07 in (2.54 m x 3.53 m)

Antique Tabriz, Persia, late nineteenth century. Stylized evergreen trees repeat in staggered array amidst a lush fill of fine, flowering vines, all against a deep navy ground. Despite the pictorial aspect of the composition, the viney mesh is nonetheless articulated ornamentally as a network connecting the various trees. An elegant interlacing vinescroll and palmette border frames the field with flanking minor borders, all set against a golden ground for framing contrast. Tabriz carpets are famed for their ability to evoke classic Persian design, but rarely do they do so with the aristocratic grace and refinement seen here.