Rare Afshar circa 1880

Afshar circa 1880 – RARE AND HIGH COLLECTIBLE 

3x5 

From a Viennese estate

A closely similar example of this carpet is featured in James Opie’s authoritative book Tribal Carpets, in an older Black and White photo, presumably due to a lack of a more contemporary picture. Possibly it is one and the same. Opie, a respected dealer and specialist in tribal carpets was making the point, appreciated by connoisseurs of Tribal carpets: the Afshars exceeded all other Persian tribal nomadic groups in finesse, creativity and imaginative drawing.   

Various experts who have reviewed this rug, (few of whom had ever seen anything like it) find as we do, an astonishing display of Afshar creativity, explosive use of form and a wide colour palette offering unusual greens, sienna, cerulean blue and eggplant. The pattern language is a total departure from the norm, a deeply inspired artistic endeavour. A two or three central medallion structure is a common enough element in Afshar carpets, though in this example an almost psychedelic series of medallion forms is achieved, an utter re-interpretation of tribal motifs.  One expert surmised that the ancient (from China, at least 2000 years ago) dragon and phoenix symbolism can be perceived within the medallions. This is plausible enough, but speculative.

The rug is in fine condition suitable for a low-medium wear area, or arguably in a large contemporary home as a wall hanging: it holds the dynamic appeal and visual impact of well executed modern art, (painting) though the border is a classic Afshar design.

As a high investment grade rug it is a connoisseur item, of undeniable rarity, and historical importance.  

$14,500 

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