Rug And MoreTea

Afshar, 80 Years Old, 185*144cm

This is a hand-knotted antique Afshar rug, originating from the Kerman province of southeastern Iran. The rug is approximately 80 years old and measures 185 by 144 centimeters (roughly 6’1” x 4’9”).

The design is a classic “Pictorial Garden” or “Vase” layout. The center of the field features two prominent, vertically aligned motifs: a stylized floral vase (Gol-dan) at the bottom, from which cascading, geometric vines and blossoms spring upward; and a similar, smaller vase motif at the top. Flanking these central elements are stylized animal figures—appearing to be deer, gazelles, or goats—woven in ivory and brown, standing symmetrically on either side of the blooming vines. The space between the animals and vases is filled with small, repeating eight-pointed stars and diamond clusters in teal and blue. The main ivory border features a repeating “vine and blossom” or “S-hook” pattern, with stylized, angular flowers connected by a meandering geometric vine.

The four corners of the red field feature quarter-medallion spandrels in blue and green, which frame the central garden. The cream main border features a repeating “flower and vine” pattern, where stylized blossoms and leaves are connected by meandering, angular stems.

The color palette is deeply saturated and defined by a rich, vibrant madder red or crimson field, which provides a warm, luminous background. Contrasting sharply with the red are the bold motifs woven in deep indigo blue, turquoise, and teal, creating a striking cool-to-warm dynamic. The wide main border features a cream or ivory ground, which frames the dark interior with crisp brightness, while accent details in golden yellow, forest green, and salmon pinkare scattered throughout the field. The rug displays a noticeable abrash (horizontal color banding) across the red field, confirming the use of natural, hand-prepared dyes. Note: There are visible dappled shadows from a tree in the photograph; the rug’s colors are uniformly vibrant beneath this natural lighting.

The stylized vases represent the Garden of Paradise (Pairidaeza) and the source of life, from which the vines of existence spring forth. The deer and gazelles symbolize grace, gentleness, and the harmony of nature, representing a peaceful, bountiful world. The eight-pointed stars symbolize divine light and guidance, while the latch-hook edges of the vines serve as protective “teeth” to ward off the Evil Eye. The cream border acts as a “frame of purity,” separating the protected garden within from the outside world.
Origin: Antique Afshar tribal rug, Kerman province, Iran.
Age: ~80 years old (mid-20th century).
Size: 185 x 144 cm (6’1″ x 4’9″), a substantial area rug.
Colors: Crimson/madder red field, deep indigo, turquoise, ivory, golden yellow, and forest green accents.
Pattern: Pictorial “Vase and Animal” layout with cascading vines.
Condition: Excellent antique condition with even low pile; natural abrash (color variation) confirms authentic natural dyes.
Motifs: Garden of Paradise (vases), grace/harmony (deer), divine guidance (stars).
Versatility: Ideal for a living room, study, or as a wall tapestry.