Rug 75124

This is a rectangular, hand-knotted Persian rug made of wool, presenting a design of dramatic contrast and rhythmic precision. To the touch, it offers a dense and low wool pile, feeling smooth and firm under the fingertips, which allows the intricate details of the pattern to be seen with exceptional clarity. The rug is solidly constructed, ending at the top and bottom with clean, off-white cotton fringes.
The visual heart of this rug is its powerful “all-over” pattern, which creates an immediate and lasting impression. The entire central field is a deep, saturated navy blue, so dark it approaches black, creating a profound depth like a night sky. This dark canvas is not empty; it is the backdrop for a mesmerizing, repeating pattern of boteh motifs. These iconic, flame-like teardrop shapes, commonly known in the West as paisley, are rendered in a vibrant, clear red. They are meticulously arranged in staggered rows, all oriented in the same direction, creating a strong sense of diagonal movement and energy across the rug.
Each individual red boteh is a world of its own, intricately outlined and filled with delicate floral details in shades of ivory, light blue, and pale green. Between the primary red botehs, the deep blue field is subtly decorated with tiny, stylized floral sprigs in the same accent colors, ensuring that no part of the surface is without detail and life. The effect is a dynamic interplay between the bold, large-scale pattern of the red botehs and the fine, delicate details that surround them.
This dramatic field is enclosed by a striking and contrasting border. The main border is wide and rendered in a warm ivory or cream color, which makes the entire design pop. Upon this light background, a pattern of interconnected red and navy blue rosettes and angular vines repeats, perfectly echoing the colors of the central field. This main border is framed by several narrower guard borders. One features a simple, repeating “S” motif in red on an ivory ground, while the outermost is a solid band of red, cleanly containing the entire composition.
The internal character of this rug is one of controlled energy and timeless symbolism. The boteh motif is one of the most ancient in Persian art, variously interpreted as a flame, a cypress tree swaying in the wind, or a symbol of fertility and eternity. Here, its repeated, orderly march across the dark field speaks of both life and precision. The masterful use of a limited but powerful color palette—deep navy, vibrant red, and clean ivory—creates a design that is both classic and visually stunning. It is a work of fine workshop craftsmanship, a perfect blend of bold graphic impact and delicate, artistic detail.